Metaphors & Analogies: Power Tools for Teaching Any Subject

by Rick Wormeli

Metaphors and analogies are more than figurative language suitable only for English classes and standardized test questions. They are “power tools” that can electrify learning in every subject and at all grade levels. Metaphors show students how to make connections between the concrete and the abstract, prior knowledge and unfamiliar concepts, and language and image.

To exploit these powers, however, teachers must learn how to use metaphors and analogies strategically and for specific purposes, helping students discover, create, and deconstruct effective comparisons. In this thoughtful and nuanced book, Rick Wormeli examines a wide range of powerful metaphors―from the rhetoric of political speeches to mathematical models to concrete spellings and body sculptures that symbolically portray abstractions.

Metaphors & Analogies is filled with provocative illustrations of metaphors in action and practical tips about using metaphors to improve assessment, professional development, and symbolic sensing. Imagine the possibilities.

Genres: Teaching, Education, Nonfiction, Adult

184 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Lara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Teachers: This is a powerful resource. It includes research-based theory and practical application, but I warn you: you may end up rethinking your curriculum. Wormeli makes a great case for incorporating metaphors and analogies at the root of our teaching. And you won't believe how many metaphors you use every day until you try one of his exercises. Helpful: smart and strategic!

[Tricia · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great book about making connections. I believe that making connections is the BEST way for students to show their understanding of the subject matter, and this book validated that belief as well as helped me to figure out ways to help students to make those connections.

[Rhonda Howard · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am reading this on my kindle. I think it would be better to have in hand, as I keep wanting to look back. My kindle skills, even after two years, are as slow growing as a mugo pine... a bonzai tree... my hair after a bad haircut... You get the picture.

[Marsha · Rating 5 out of 5]

I think this is a super powerful way to expand my thinking about teaching. I'm only on Chapter 3 but I have a ton of notes already.