Literary Devices — Answer Key
Part A: Fix the Sentence
Each sentence has an error. Rewrite it correctly on the line.
1. Fix the sentence:
Imagery is a literary device that appeals only to the sense of sight.
Corrected: Imagery is a literary device that appeals to all five senses.
Imagery can describe sounds, textures, smells, and tastes too, not just things you can see. Limiting it to sight ignores the other four senses that imagery often targets.
2. Fix the sentence:
"The dove flew over the battlefield" uses hyperbole to represent peace.
Corrected: "The dove flew over the battlefield" uses symbolism to represent peace.
A dove standing for peace is symbolism because the dove represents a bigger idea. Hyperbole would be an extreme exaggeration, which is not happening here.
3. Fix the sentence:
"The cold wind bit her face" is an example of imagery because it gives wind a human action.
Corrected: "The cold wind bit her face" is an example of personification because it gives wind a human action.
Biting is a human (or animal) action, and giving that action to the wind makes this personification. Imagery describes sensory details but does not assign human behaviors to non-human things.
Part B: Fill in the Blank
Write the missing word or number on each line.
1. "The warm, golden sunlight poured through the dusty window" appeals to the senses of sight and touch, making it imagery.
The word "warm" lets the reader feel the sunlight on their skin, which is the sense of touch. Combined with the visual detail of "golden," the sentence uses two senses.
2. In many stories, a storm is used as a symbol to represent trouble or conflict.
A storm is a concrete thing that authors use to stand for an abstract idea like trouble or conflict. When an object represents something beyond its literal meaning, it is a symbol.
3. "The fresh-baked cookies filled the kitchen with a sweet, buttery aroma" uses imagery that appeals to the sense of smell.
The words "sweet, buttery aroma" describe a scent the reader can almost experience. Since an aroma is something you detect with your nose, this imagery appeals to smell.
4. A red rose is often used as a symbol of love.
Across many cultures and stories, the red rose has come to represent love. Its red color and beauty connect it to romantic feelings, making it one of the most well-known symbols.
Part C: Short Answer
Answer each question in one or two complete sentences.
1. Read: "The crisp autumn leaves crunched beneath her boots as the sharp scent of pine filled the air." Which senses does this imagery appeal to? Name at least two.
Sample answer: This imagery appeals to the sense of hearing (crunched) and the sense of smell (sharp scent of pine). It also appeals to touch (crisp).
A good answer includes: This imagery appeals to the sense of hearing (crunched) and the sense of smell (sharp scent of pine). It also appeals to touch (crisp).
2. In a story, a character keeps a flickering candle lit during a dark night. What might the candle symbolize? Explain your thinking.
Sample answer: The candle might symbolize hope because it provides a small light in the darkness. Just as hope keeps people going during hard times, the candle keeps the darkness away.
A good answer includes: The candle might symbolize hope because it provides a small light in the darkness. Just as hope keeps people going during hard times, the candle keeps the darkness away.