Reading Comprehension 101 (continued)

Next, have your child read the text on the page. Afterwards, ask him if the descriptions, language and tone of the text are consistent with the message conveyed in the pictures. If not consistent, probe further to determine why he thinks so.

Figurative language in the text can be just as telling as illustraions - just a bit harder to decipher at first. Through figurative language, like simile, metaphor, hyperbole, and personification, writers describe things through the use of unusual comparisons and exaggerations to portray strong or complex messages, or sometimes to humorous effect. The result of using this technique is the creation of interesting images in our minds. Consider these examples below:

• Mile-high ice-cream cones 
• She sings at the top of her lungs.
• Her hair was silk.
• The sun is like a yellow ball of fire in the sky.

Ask your child to describe the images that come to mind when he hears these figures of speech. What message is the author trying to convey with these phrases? Is it an image of intensity? Color? Is it funny, or surprising? Encourage your child to find other examples of figurative language in books, newspapers and magazines, and to think about the image or impression that they make. Not only will he be exploring the wide and wonderful possibilities that language holds, he will also be developing key reading comprehension skills that will last a lifetime.