Poetry Writing: Similes and Metaphors Worksheet
Learning Objective: Pupils can identify and create similes and metaphors to enhance their writing
About this resource
This KS2 English worksheet provides Year 4 pupils with engaging activities to identify and create similes and metaphors, enriching their descriptive writing skills. Teachers can use this resource to introduce or reinforce these poetic devices, helping children to understand how figurative language enhances their creative expression. It directly supports the National Curriculum's emphasis on developing vocabulary and understanding literary techniques.
What are Similes and Metaphors?
A simile compares two things using 'like' or 'as': The snow was as white as cotton wool.
A metaphor says something IS something else: The snow was a white blanket covering the ground.
Both make writing more vivid and interesting.
Foundation Task
Identify: Is it a simile (S) or metaphor (M)?
- The stars were diamonds in the sky. ___
- She ran like the wind. ___
- His eyes were as blue as the ocean. ___
- The classroom was a zoo. ___
- The rain fell like tears. ___
Complete these similes:
- As brave as ___
- As quiet as ___
- The thunder sounded like ___
Core Task
Create your own similes and metaphors for each topic:
The Sea:
- Simile: The waves were like...
- Metaphor: The sea was...
A Storm:
- Simile: The lightning was as... as...
- Metaphor: The wind was...
A Forest:
- Simile: The trees stood like...
- Metaphor: The forest was...
Now write a 6-line poem about one of these topics using at least 2 similes and 2 metaphors.
Challenge Task
Write an extended poem (at least 12 lines) about a season of your choice. Include:
- At least 3 similes
- At least 3 metaphors
- Personification (giving human qualities to non-human things)
- Alliteration
Underline and label each technique you have used.
Differentiation
SEN Support
Focus on identification and completing similes. Word bank of comparisons. Visual examples with pictures.
EAL Support
Key vocabulary with visual examples. Sentence frames for creating similes/metaphors. Paired practice.
Gifted & Talented
Complete Challenge task with multiple poetic techniques. Analyse a published poem identifying the poet's use of figurative language.
Key Vocabulary
Assessment Criteria
- Can identify similes and metaphors
- Can create original similes and metaphors
- Can use figurative language in poetry