When writers use personification, they give human qualities to nonhuman things. Read the example below.
| EXAMPLE | The lonely tree reached toward the sun for friendship. |
A tree cannot feel lonely or seek out a friend—these are human abilities. Compare the example to a sentence without personification, such as: “There was one tree.” Personification creates a stronger image.
Analyze Personification With a group, read each example from “Encounter.” Tell what image you picture. Then discuss what the sentence means.
1. A loud clap of thunder woke me from my dream.
2. … each great canoe gave birth to many little ones that swam awkwardly to our shore.
3. The baby canoes spat out many strange creatures …
4. They gave hollow shells with tongues that sang …
5. The spear bit my palm so hard the blood cried out.
HISTORY
Learn more about Taino culture by researching Taino artifacts.
1 Find Art Samples The Taino people disappeared after the Spanish arrived on their land. However, many artifacts remain, such as tools, art, and pottery. With a partner, find examples of these artifacts online.
Find and learn about Taino artifacts.
Internet
InsideNG.com2 Take Notes Take notes on artifacts in Taino culture. What was it made of or used for? Who used it? Why was it important?
3 Discuss Your Findings Share the information in your notes with the class. Listen as others share their information. Then discuss what these artifacts tell you about Taino culture.