Struggling to help students grasp abstract or complex concepts? Using analogies and metaphors can make unfamiliar ideas more relatable and memorable. By connecting new information to something students already know, these strategies promote deeper understanding, spark curiosity, and support meaningful learning across subjects and grade levels.
What it is
An analogy (like a simile) draws a comparison between two things to highlight similarities, often using “like” or “as” (e.g., the atom is like a solar system). A metaphor is a direct comparison that implies one thing is another (e.g., time is a river). Teachers use both to help students visualize, relate, and internalize challenging content.
Why it works
Analogies and metaphors clarify abstract concepts by linking them to familiar experiences, making learning more accessible and engaging. They promote retention by creating memorable mental images and encourage critical thinking as students analyze similarities and differences. These strategies support creativity and are versatile across subjects, enhancing student understanding and engagement.
How to use it
- Identify challenging concepts that students often find abstract or complex.
- Choose familiar comparisons linked to students’ prior knowledge.
- Introduce and model the analogy or metaphor, explaining how it relates to the concept.
- Encourage students to generate their own analogies or metaphors.
- Discuss limitations so students can analyze where the comparison works and where it may not fully capture the concept.
Example in action
In a Grade 7 science class learning about electrical circuits, students could explore an analogy comparing a circuit to a water park. Current flows like water through pipes, switches act as gates, and resistors slow the flow similar to narrow slides. This comparison helps students visualize current, resistance, and voltage in a tangible way, making the abstract concept more understandable and memorable.
Variations
- Small group brainstorming: Have students collaborate in groups to create multiple analogies for the same concept and then share with the class.
- Visual analogies: Encourage students to draw diagrams, sketches, or comic-style representations to complement their analogies.
- Subject crossovers: Use analogies and metaphors to connect ideas across disciplines (e.g., comparing a story plot to a musical composition or a chemical reaction to a recipe).
- Student-led teaching: Ask students to explain a concept to peers using their own analogy or metaphor, reinforcing comprehension and communication skills.
Tips for success
- Keep analogies relatable using examples from students’ everyday experiences.
- Use visuals such as diagrams, drawings, or props to reinforce understanding.
- Encourage multiple analogies to offer diverse perspectives.
- Revisit analogies in future lessons to reinforce comprehension.
- Analyze the strengths and limitations of each analogy to develop critical thinking skills.
Takeaway
Analogies and metaphors transform abstract ideas into relatable, memorable concepts. By connecting new information to prior knowledge, students deepen understanding, think critically, and engage creatively across all subjects and grade levels.
References
Gray, M. E., & Holyoak, K. J. (2021). Teaching by analogy: From theory to practice. Mind, Brain, and Education, 15(3), 250-263. https://doi.org/10.1111/mbe.12288
