Verbal Drawing

“In a fundamental sense, metaphor is a ‘verbal drawing technique’ that allows people to describe referents for which there is not adequate words available.” (Kovecses, 2002)

AP portfolio entry, 2010

In my high school classrooms, I commonly find students who struggle with the expression of abstract topics in their work. For my students, color symbolism is their only vehicle. In fact, I have sometimes asked my students to explain how they conveyed their ideas beyond color! It is clear that, at least for my classroom, extended metaphors are a struggle.

So, to raise awareness, I have used a variety of opportunities to engage students in metaphorical thinking. One of my favorite early activity comes from Metaphors & Analogies: Power Tools for Teaching Any Subject by Rick Wormeli (Oct 5, 2009). Here is a short description:

Ask students to explain a concept or abstract topic in detail without using comparative language.   Choose a topic that will require students to emphasize the “what,” not the “how,” of the thing. Here are some topics to use: Friendship, Family, Trust, Mercy, Worry, Trouble, Honor, Balance, or Embarrassment.

Ask students to create detailed descriptions of the term using both: 
1. Metaphorical language
2.  Detailed descriptions without metaphorical language. (I usually put them into cooperative groups to do this activity.)

After a short period of time, have students share their results for both descriptions. Then, discuss with students: Which description is richer or more meaningful? How difficult is it to explain a concept without metaphors?

Do you have a favorite way to encourage metaphorical thinking skills in your classroom? If so, please share.

-Laura Milas