This figurative language and poetry terms lesson for grades 6–9 teaches 20 essential vocabulary words used in poetry and literary analysis. Designed for teachers, homeschoolers, and tutors, it includes clear definitions and examples to build understanding of sound devices, figurative language, and poetry types. Appropriate for the Junior High / Middle School ELA classroom.
Understanding figurative language and poetry terms is essential for students as they analyze and interpret literature. This clear and structured figurative language and poetry terms lesson for grades 6–9 introduces 20 key vocabulary terms commonly taught in junior high ELA classrooms.
The lesson covers a range of important concepts, including sound devices such as rhyme and alliteration, figurative language such as simile and metaphor, and common types of poetry such as haiku and lyric poetry. Each term is clearly defined, making it easy for students to understand and apply in their reading and writing.
This printable PDF is ideal for introducing or reviewing essential literary vocabulary, helping students build a strong foundation for poetry analysis and comprehension.
What’s Included
20 essential poetry and figurative language terms
Clear, student-friendly definitions
Coverage of sound devices (rhyme, alliteration)
Explanation of figurative language (simile, metaphor)
Introduction to common poetry types (haiku, lyric poetry)
What Students Will Learn
Key figurative language and poetry vocabulary
How to recognize sound devices in text
How figurative language enhances meaning
Basic types of poetry and their characteristics
Why This Resource Works
Focuses on the most commonly taught literary terms
Presents definitions in a clear, accessible format
Supports both introduction and review
Builds a strong foundation for literary analysis
Perfect For
Middle school classrooms (grades 6–9)
Poetry and figurative language units
Vocabulary development and review
Homeschool language arts instruction
Tutoring and test preparation
