Download Metaphors and Similes

Metaphors and Similes
Brief Description
Using metaphors and similes, group members will describe their notions of what the group is like
and explore the similarities, differences, and themes.
Purpose
To explore individual conceptualizations of the group in a creative fashion
Leadership Emory Tenant
Sharing the “Commitment to Action”
Kolb Cycle
Abstract Conceptualization
Number of Participants
Any number of participants; Best for an intact group
Time Requirements
20 minutes (depends on number of participants)
Space requirements
No space requirements
Materials
None needed
Outline
1. Have each participant think of a metaphor or simile that represents the group. Note: you
can ask more specific questions, like how decisions are made or how members feel about
the group. If needed, give an example, like “Our group is like a tree, because we are
rooted in our values and we are constantly growing” or “Our group is like a postcard,
because we are always trying to convey a lot of information in a little bit of time and
appearances are important to us” or “Our group is like a boxing glove – we look soft on
the outside, but we hit hard when crossed.”
2. When each participant has their simile/metaphor, have the act it out for the group and see
if others can guess. Then, have each person explain.
3. Write all the metaphors down.
4. Process the exercise with the students.
Processing Questions
1. Were there any themes to the metaphors shared? Did they seem mostly positive or
negative? Were they mostly about something specific (i.e. how decisions are made, how
group members interact, the group’s purpose)? Does this tell you something about where
the group energy lies?
2. Were there any that you didn’t agree with? Why is your conception of the group so
different from other individuals? What metaphors seemed correct to you?
3. Were you happy with the metaphors? What metaphors would you LIKE the group to be
seen as by its members?
Keywords
Icebreaker, Metaphor, Simile, Conceptualization of Group
Source
Wagner, W., Ostick, D. T., & Komives, S. R. (2007). Leadership for a Better World:
Understanding the Social Change Model of Leadership Development Instructor’s Manual. San
Francisco: Jossey-Bass.