Assignment : Turn these phrases into complete sentences. The bedroom was so messy that…

8. Assignment: Write a number of similes and/or metaphors to describe an article of clothing you are wearing. Consider the item’s color, texture, style, possible emotions associated with the item, etc.

11. Assignment: Turn these phrases into complete sentences. • The bedroom was so messy that… • I was so hungry that… • My dog can run faster than… • Illustrate the literal meaning of the sentences you create.

14. Assignment: Compose sentences about everyday items, such as an alarm clock, a campfire, or a zoo animal. The sentences should give the items human characteristics. (Think of fairy tales such as “The Three Little Pigs” or Disney movies like “Beauty and the Beast.”

17. Assignment: Generate a list of idioms that people once used. Research some of the idioms to try to determine their origin.

20. Assignment: Write words for the sounds that would be made in various scenarios, such as walking in wet shoes or standing under an umbrella during a rainstorm. Record various sounds you hear around the school and then use onomatopoeia to describe those sounds.

23. Assignment: Create a comic strip, short story, or script detailing the adventures of an unusual superhero duo: Understatement Guy/Girl and Hyperbole Man/Woman. One of these crusaders performs amazing feats but always describes his or her actions by using understatements, as if the deeds were no big deal. The other superhero brags about every little accomplishment, even those that are not so “super.”

26. Assignment: In a group, one student writes a noun that begins with a consonant sound, then passes the paper to another student in the group. That student write a verb or adjective that begins with the same sound. The other two students in the group each identify another word that begins with the sound and would add meaning to a sentence containing the first two words. Finally, work together to compose a sentence that includes your words and is an effective example of alliteration.

31. Assignment: • Create a classroom cliché list. • Suggest words or phrases you avoid because the words or phrases are overused, out of style, or lack power. • Which clichés have you heard adults, parents, or teachers use.

34. Assignment: • Identify the ideas commonly associated with these well-known symbols: the American flag, a hammer, a lion, and an apple. • Identify objects you feel would be appropriate symbols for important ideas, such as power, knowledge, freedom, and honesty.