In need of some quick short stories for metaphors, idioms, and similes? Check out my FREE Figurative Language Stories, with 17 short stories worksheets ready to print-and-go!

I’ve talked before about figurative language – specifically why and how we target idioms in speech therapy. If you’re looking for some free materials to get you started, read on!

I have a new exciting FREEBIE for all of you! It incorporates the RAP Protocol (which I’ve used in two other products) while using figurative language including metaphors, similes, and idioms!

Included is:
-17 short stories
-1 story elements die
-Graphic organizers (2 versions)
-Cover card for organization

Your students can read simple, short stories and identify the main idea and 2 details from each. There are multiple examples of figurative language in each story. This way, your students can practice their comprehension skills at the same time as their figurative language. I love using short stories for metaphors and other figurative language. For me, this helps solidify the meanings of an idiom, simile, or metaphor without making my kiddos memorize each! They can use them in some sort of context!

What is figurative language?

Figurative language consists of using non-literal expressions to communicate an idea. This is a challenge for our language disordered students, who struggle to understand even literal language. When we throw in other meanings, suddenly language is even more complicated than before. Examples of figurative language include metaphors, similes, and idioms.

What is an idiom?

Just in case you need a little refresher, let’s talk about what makes an idiom. An idiom is an expression or figure of speech. It does not have a literal meaning. If you have a student who struggles with understanding an idiom, they may be trying to interpret it literally. “My nose is running” is a great example of an idiom. No, your nose is not actually running. We know that that idiom means that you need a tissue!

American students who are English language learners may not know American idioms due to cultural differences. Have you ever looked up idioms from another country? It’s really funny when you hear an idiom you are not familiar with. Keep this in mind if you have bilingual students – difficulties with idioms may not reflect a speech disorder, rather it may be a speech difference.

Another thing to keep in mind is that idioms can come and go in popularity. I heard a high school student say “Hang on, my brain just left the group chat,” while she was talking to some friends. She meant that she became distracted and had lost the thread of the conversation (which was happening in real time, face-to face, not over a smartphone). So new idioms are being created all the time. And old idioms fall out of favor. If we focus on idioms, we want to make sure they are functional – present in the culture and used modernly!

Figurative Language Freebie!

This freebie is now available in my Teachers Pay Teachers store. Just click here to check it out.

You can see some pictures from the product below:

Check out my similar packets for expository text and narrative text!

Do you enjoy this format for free downloads?? I was thinking of switching it out every couple months!