 A simile is a figure of speech comparing two unlike things, often introduced with the words like or as.  A simile is NOT a metaphor, which is almost the same thing, but doesn’t use the words like or as.

 Similes are used everywhere!  They make writing more interesting.  It helps the reader visualize what the writing was trying to express.  Helps reader identify situations.

 In Hinton's novel, the protagonist uses similes to help his readers identify with his situation.  So I sat there like a bump on a log.  When Pony Boy describes Darry as, “eyes that are like two pieces of pale blue-green ice,” meaning they are sharp and cold.

 Lois Lowry doesn’t use similes as often as other authors. Her writing technique is more direct, and to the point.  Example: When the snow gathers on the back of Jonas’ hands; he compares it to cold fur.

 Bradbury tends to use metaphors more often than similes in his writing. However, Bradbury uses many similes to describe Clarisse.  Example: Her face was bright as snow.

Shakespeare uses similes very often to describe love and beauty.  Example: His reasons are as two grains of wheat hid in two bushels of chaff.

 People use similes all the time. It helps us describe what we are trying to get through.  Some examples are:  She’s as busy as a bee.  It is as easy as pie!  You smell like a pig.  That boy is as thin as a toothpick.

 Find a simile from your AR book, or something from pop culture. Explain why it is a simile and what it means.

Questions??