- Definition
Imagery is when a writer uses words to create a clear picture or feeling in your child's mind, like describing a "sparkling, icy river.
Saying 'the sun was a warm blanket' uses imagery to help you feel the sun's warmth.
How to teach this in 30 seconds
Try this analogy: Imagery is like a writer using words as crayons to draw a picture in your mind.
Ask your child: What do you see in your mind when you read this?
Common mix-up: Kids might think imagery is only about things you can see. Imagery can also use words to help you imagine sounds, smells, and feelings.
Examples
- Describing a 'loud, booming drum' helps the reader hear the sound in their mind.
- Saying 'the moon was a sliver of white' helps you picture exactly what the moon looked like.
imagery is a term used in Ontario’s Kindergarten to Grade 8 curriculum.
Where this shows up
The descriptions on this page are SmartStudy’s own original, plain-language writing — not the Ministry’s wording. They are aligned to the Ontario Curriculum, © King’s Printer for Ontario. For the Ministry’s official wording, see the source link below. SmartStudy is an independent service and is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the Government of Ontario or the Ministry of Education. Ontario Curriculum and Resources ↗
