Figures of Speech & Literary Devices is one of 9 topics in the Grade 11 English Home Language CAPS syllabus, covered across 3 lessons on Study Vault. Below are real practice questions from this topic with full worked answers.
Sample practice questions
Easy
1. Which figure of speech compares two things directly, stating one thing IS another, without using "like" or "as"?
Metaphor
Simile
Onomatopoeia
Alliteration
Answer: Metaphor — A metaphor compares directly, without "like" or "as," stating that one thing IS another, such as "Her memory was a locked door."
Easy
2. Imagery refers to language that:
Appeals to any of the five senses, creating a vivid sensory impression
Only ever describes visual scenes, never sound or smell
Is always factually literal, with no descriptive purpose
Only appears in formal, non-fiction writing
Answer: Appeals to any of the five senses, creating a vivid sensory impression — Imagery is descriptive language appealing to any of the five senses -- sight, sound, smell, touch, taste -- creating a vivid impression rather than an abstract statement.
Medium
3. What term describes a metaphor developed across several lines or an entire stanza or passage, rather than in a single sentence?
Answer: Extended metaphor — An extended metaphor develops a single metaphorical comparison across several lines or a whole passage, building a more sustained image than a brief metaphor.
