SSAT Middle Level Reading
A subject designed to help students master reading comprehension skills needed for the SSAT Middle Level test.
Advanced Topics
Recognizing Literary Devices
Spotting the Tricks Authors Use
Authors use special tools called literary devices to make their writing more interesting or powerful. These include metaphors, similes, personification, and more.
Common Literary Devices
- Metaphor: Saying one thing is another (e.g., "Time is a thief").
- Simile: Comparing using "like" or "as" (e.g., "Her smile was as bright as the sun").
- Personification: Giving human qualities to things (e.g., "The wind whispered").
Why It Matters
Recognizing these devices helps you answer questions and enjoy stories more.
Real-World Connection
Understanding literary devices makes you a better writer and helps you appreciate movies, books, and music lyrics!
Examples
Noticing that 'the clouds danced' is personification.
Spotting a simile in 'fast as a cheetah.'
In a Nutshell
Discover the creative tools writers use to bring stories to life.