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Gary Kelley-author
Pre-visit activity 1
Background
The mountain man’s
jargon was full of idioms, those colorful similes that make language
interesting. They were also a way to say a lot in a few words if you knew
the story behind them. Take “don’t cry over spilled milk” for example.
Children today don’t understand, but if you know the story of the milk maid
who carried her pail to market on her head, dreamed about all she would buy
with her money from the milk, and how she’d toss her head at her jealous
friends, only to spill the milk, then you know pride can lead to
disappointment. And once the milk is spilled you can’t pick it up. The same
goes with “Don’t count your chickens before they hatch.” As a chicken and
quail breeder, I’m well aware that a dozen eggs in the incubator doesn’t
mean they will all hatch. The actual success rate for me varies from 60 to
85 percent.
The western saying, “He’ll do to ride the river with”, was the highest
complimentary introduction a man could have. It meant the person could be
counted on in an emergency, did his share, was honest, and was an enjoyable
companion.
Activity
After discussing idioms with students they may enjoy creating their own in
today’s language, from their own experiences. To make this into an art
lesson as well, have them list some (5+?) idioms of their creation on a
piece of paper, and decorate/illustrate it. Mr. Kelley enjoys seeing this
sort of student work on display.
Sample
She was as sour
as a lemon.
The knife was as dull as a watermelon
I’m as hot as a marathon runner
That hurts as bad as lemon juice in a paper cut
This is as boring as watching grass grow
Reinforcement
If teachers emphasize the words simile and metaphor during the discussion,
this activity can help students master some literary devices which are on
the state test.
Creating idioms while waiting in line, like for lunch, is a fun way to
reinforce the concept of simile and metaphor.
You might also encourage students to point out similes and metaphors as they
find them in all their reading.
A printable poster of all the literary devices is available from the
author’s web site. (www.garykelleywriter.com) Click
“Teacher Helps.” If you post the poster in the classroom, students can
self-teach the literary devices and identify them as you use them in your
daily discussions.
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