Adages & Proverbs
What does “The early bird gets the worm” mean?
People who act early or prepare ahead gain an advantage.
What is the denotation of the word “snake”?
A reptile
What is symbolism in literature?
When an object, color, or thing stands for a deeper idea.
Q: What type of conflict is “a boy trying to climb a dangerous mountain”?
A: Character vs. nature.
Q: What is direct characterization?
A: When the author directly tells you what a character is like.
The adage “Don’t bite the hand that feeds you” is a warning about what?
Not to be ungrateful or harm someone who helps you.
Does the word “slender” have a positive, negative, or neutral connotation? Why?
A: Positive.
In many stories, a heart is a symbol of what?
A: Love or affection.
Q: What type of conflict is “two best friends disagree over a secret”?
A: Character vs. character.
Q: What is indirect characterization?
A: Showing character traits through actions, dialogue, or thoughts.
What is the meaning of the proverb “A watched pot never boils”?
Things feel slower when you keep checking or waiting impatiently.
Which word has a more negative connotation to the word child-like?
Immature, childish, etc.
A storm in a story often symbolizes which idea?
A: Conflict, trouble, or emotional chaos.
Q: “A girl struggles with feeling confident.” What conflict is this?
A: Character vs. self.
Q: “He never shared his toys and always bragged.” What character trait does this show?
A: Selfish or arrogant.
Which proverb means “Actions matter more than promises”?
Actions speak louder than words.”
Identify the connotation: “The student was pushy during group work.” Explain.
A: Negative (rude, aggressive).
Q: In a story, a broken mirror symbolizing “a change in identity” is an example of what?
A: Symbolism showing a deeper emotional or personal shift.
Q: What conflict is “a student fights against unfair school rules”?
A: Character vs. society.
Q: Name all methods of characterization (S.T.E.A.L.).
A: Speech, Thoughts, Effects on others, Actions, Looks.
Explain the meaning of “You can’t judge a book by its cover.”
A: You shouldn’t judge people or things based on appearance alone.
Q: Give three positive connotation words to replace skinny.
A: Slim, slender, fit, etc.
Q: A character keeps a wilted flower on their desk. What might this symbolize?
A: Loss, fading hope, sadness, or something coming to an end.
Q: “A robot malfunctions and threatens the town.” What is the conflict?
A: Character vs. technology.
Q: If a character blushes, stammers, and avoids eye contact, what 3 traits might this show?
A: Shy, nervous, timid.