The Science of a Storm: How Thunder and Lightning Work - Literary Devices 5: Onomatopoeia and Alliteration (Grade 6)

Onomatopoeia is a word that imitates a sound. The word 'boom' imitates the loud sound of thunder, making it the best example. The other options are descriptive phrases from the text that do not imitate sounds.

Alliteration is the repetition of the same beginning sound in words that are close together. In 'fierce, fast-falling,' the 'f' sound is repeated, making it a clear example of alliteration. The other options do not repeat initial sounds.

The word 'boom' is an onomatopoeia that mimics a loud, deep, resonant sound. The author uses it to help the reader experience the power and sound of thunder, making the scientific explanation more vivid and understandable. The other options describe different sound qualities or unrelated ideas.

This phrase is an example of alliteration because the beginning 'c' sound is repeated in 'cool,' 'currents,' and 'cascade.' It does not contain any words that imitate sounds, so it is not onomatopoeia.

The repetition of the 'r' sound in 'rumbling, rolling' mimics the low, continuous sound of distant thunder. This use of alliteration helps the reader imagine the sound and creates a more descriptive and engaging picture of the storm.

The phrase 'pitter-patter' mimics the sound of light droplets hitting a surface. The author uses this word to help the reader understand that the rain is starting gently, contrasting it with the louder sounds of a full storm. The other options describe different sound qualities.

Onomatopoeia is a sound word ('boom'). Alliteration is repeating initial sounds ('fierce, fast-falling'). The passage explains that a sonic shockwave is what we hear as thunder, and that convection is the process of rising warm air that starts a storm. All terms and definitions are based on the passage.

'Drip-drop,' 'boom,' and 'crash' are words that imitate sounds. 'Fierce, fast-falling' and 'dark, dramatic downdrafts' repeat beginning sounds. 'Warm, moist air' is a simple descriptive phrase with no literary device.

Each phrase from the passage uses a literary device to create a specific sensory effect. 'Crack' is a sharp sound. 'Fierce, fast-falling' uses alliteration to suggest speed. 'Rumble' is a low, fading sound. 'Dark, dramatic downdrafts' uses alliteration to create a feeling of heavy movement.