STAAR EOC: Reading

The STAAR EOC: Reading subject focuses on the essential reading skills required for high school students in Texas to succeed in their End-of-Course assessments.

Understanding Main Idea and Supporting DetailsMaking Inferences and Drawing ConclusionsAnalyzing Author’s Purpose and Point of View
Interpreting Figurative Language and Literary DevicesEvaluating Argument and EvidenceUnderstanding Text Structure and Organization
Reading for Everyday LifeAnalyzing Media and Digital TextsApplying Reading Skills to Other Subjects
Active Reading StrategiesProcess of EliminationTime Management During the Test
Understanding Main I...Making Inferences an...Analyzing Author’s P...Interpreting Figurat...Evaluating Argument ...Understanding Text S...Reading for Everyday...Analyzing Media and ...Applying Reading Ski...Active Reading Strat...Process of Eliminati...Time Management Duri...
Advanced Topics

Interpreting Figurative Language and Literary Devices

Unpacking Creative Language

Authors use figurative language and literary devices to make their writing vivid and memorable. These tools include metaphors, similes, personification, hyperbole, and more.

Common Literary Devices

  • Metaphor: Compares two things without using “like” or “as” (“Time is a thief.”)
  • Simile: Compares two things using “like” or “as” (“Brave as a lion.”)
  • Personification: Gives human qualities to objects or animals (“The wind whispered.”)
  • Hyperbole: Exaggeration for effect (“I’ve told you a million times!”)
  • Alliteration: Repeating initial sounds (“Peter Piper picked…”)

Why Do Writers Use Them?

These devices create imagery, set the mood, and help readers connect emotionally with the text.

Tips

Look for unusual comparisons or phrases that stand out—they’re often figurative language!

Real-World Example

Understanding figurative language helps you enjoy poems, stories, and even song lyrics on a deeper level.

Examples

  • 'The classroom was a zoo' is a metaphor suggesting a chaotic environment.

  • 'She runs like the wind' is a simile comparing speed to wind.

In a Nutshell

Recognize and interpret creative language that authors use to add meaning and flair.

Key Terms

Figurative Language
Language that uses creative comparisons, not meant to be taken literally.
Literary Device
A technique used by writers to produce a special effect in their writing.
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Evaluating Argument and Evidence