SSAT Middle Level Reading

A subject designed to help students master reading comprehension skills needed for the SSAT Middle Level test.

Advanced Topics

Recognizing Literary Devices

Spotting the Tricks Authors Use

Authors use special tools called literary devices to make their writing more interesting or powerful. These include metaphors, similes, personification, and more.

Common Literary Devices

  • Metaphor: Saying one thing is another (e.g., "Time is a thief").
  • Simile: Comparing using "like" or "as" (e.g., "Her smile was as bright as the sun").
  • Personification: Giving human qualities to things (e.g., "The wind whispered").

Why It Matters

Recognizing these devices helps you answer questions and enjoy stories more.

Real-World Connection

Understanding literary devices makes you a better writer and helps you appreciate movies, books, and music lyrics!

Examples

  • Noticing that 'the clouds danced' is personification.

  • Spotting a simile in 'fast as a cheetah.'

In a Nutshell

Discover the creative tools writers use to bring stories to life.