The 4 I’s of Liberation & Oppression
Literary Devices – Definitions
Literary Devices – Examples
Irony
Community Cultural Wealth
100

This “I” is when unfair ideas/beliefs or stereotypes about groups of people get passed down and shape society.

Ideological

100

Giving human qualities to something non-human.

Personification

100

“She is as busy as a bee.”

Simile

100

When what happens is the opposite of what was expected.

Irony

100

This kind of wealth is when families share wisdom, skills, and life lessons that help young people succeed.

Familial Wealth

200

This “I” is when systems or institutions (like schools, laws, or government) create unequal opportunities.

Institutional

200

The author’s choice of words.

Diction

200

“The warm cinnamon scent of the bakery wrapped around me, while golden light spilled across rows of fresh bread.”

Imagery 

200

When the audience knows something the character does not.

Dramatic Irony

200

A student knows how to fill out financial aid forms and ask a counselor for help because their older cousin showed them the process.

Navigational Wealth

300

This “I” is when people treat each other unfairly, bully, or exclude others.

Interpersonal

300

Comparing two unlike things using “like” or “as.”

Simile

300

“The wind whispered through the trees.”

Personification

300

Saying the opposite of what you mean, often sarcastically.

Verbal Irony

300

Having dreams and goals for the future, even when things are tough.

Aspirational Wealth

400

This “I” is when someone begins to believe the negative stereotypes about their own identity or community.

Internalized

400

A comparison that says one thing is another.

Metaphor

400

“Time is a thief that steals our days.”

Metaphor

400

Romeo thinks Juliet is dead, but we know she’s alive. This is an example of…

Dramatic Irony

400

This kind of wealth is built from friendships, connections, and support networks.

Social Wealth

500

This concept means breaking free from barriers and living fully with your community.

Liberation

500

Exaggerated statements not meant to be taken literally

Hyperbole

500

Fiona found four funky fossils .

Alliteration

500

A fire station burns down. This is an example of…

Situational Irony 

500

This type of wealth is using your culture, history, and traditions to resist oppression and build power.

Resistant Wealth

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