Reading & Writing

Reading & Writing Posts

figurative language simile, metaphor, personification, hyperbole, idiom, allusion, symbolism

Figurative Language and Imagery: Free Resources for Teaching and Practice

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Figurative language enables authors to turn plain sentences into vivid, emotional, and memorable descriptions. In this section, we’ll explore common types of figurative language, such as metaphor, simile, personification, hyperbole, idioms, symbolism, allusion, and imagery. Each element works together to add depth and color to both reading and writing. Overviews and Tutorials Imagery Video (with […]

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Analyzing Style and Tone in Stories: Free Resources

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Analyzing an author’s language and word choice within a story is another interesting area for literary analysis. The words an author selects significantly influence the mood of a scene, reveal character traits, and shape the reader’s perception of a story. By understanding things like diction, tone, style, and voice, readers can improve their comprehension and

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Characters & Setting: Free Tools for Literary Analysis

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Characters and setting work together to pull readers into the world of a story. A clever plot may keep us turning pages, but it’s the people (or creatures!) we care about, and the world they live in, that contribute to making a story compelling. Characters come alive through their actions, dialogue, and choices. They can

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Literary Analysis Resources

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Literary analysis is more than just “talking about a book.” It’s learning to notice how authors use language, structure, and style to create meaning. For homeschool families, teaching literary analysis helps learners develop critical thinking, writing skills, and appreciation for great works of literature. When it comes to teaching literary analysis, there are different approaches

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Reading Comprehension Tips + Free Worksheets

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If your child is able to read without difficulty but struggles with understanding and remembering what was read, the free resources below may help. These reading comprehension strategies include tips on how to use them effectively, plus free practice activities. Use these resources when you’re reading aloud together or when your child reads independently. With

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Creative Book Report Ideas + Free Templates

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Do you do book reports with your kids? This guide explores both conventional and more creative approaches to book reporting, complete with free downloadable resources to make implementation a breeze. Read on to view the advantages of using book reports in your homeschool. Or jump straight to the free resources. Educational Value of Book Reports

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Using Graphic Novels In Your  Homeschool Curriculum

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Graphic novels are an often-overlooked resource that can enhance your reading curriculum and offer a fresh approach to literacy. These visually rich narratives combine text and illustrations to create engaging stories that cater to diverse learning styles and interests. What Exactly Is a Graphic Novel? When talking about graphic novels in education, it’s a reference

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4 Ways to Homeschool With Question and Answer Books to Enhance Non Fiction Reading

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Questions, questions, so many questions. Take advantage of your kids’ natural curiosity and satisfy that seemingly insatiable hunger for knowledge with interesting question and answer books designed specifically for them. The question and answer format is inherently engaging, breaking down complex concepts into bite-sized queries, and providing clear, concise explanations. Young readers can explore a

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Read Stories For Learning & Avoid Dull Textbooks

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During our family’s time homeschooling, regular trips to the library were among our favorite activities. The kiddos would each return home with an armful of books spanning topics from A to Z. While some were purely for entertainment, others helped to build knowledge about the world. They learned content in all the major subjects without

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