What You Need to Know

Key Concept Diagram

Hyperbole is extreme exaggeration not meant to be taken literally: "I've told you a million times!"

Hyperbole creates emphasis, humour, or emotional intensity

Satire uses wit and exaggeration to expose and criticise foolishness, corruption, or social problems

Techniques in satire: irony, sarcasm, caricature (exaggerated portrayal), parody (imitation for comic effect)

Famous satirical works include Animal Farm (Orwell), The Simpsons, and political cartoons

Key Vocabulary

Hyperbole

Deliberate and extreme exaggeration used for emphasis or humorous effect, not meant literally

Satire

Writing that uses humour, irony, and exaggeration to criticise people, institutions, or society

Irony

Saying the opposite of what you mean, or a situation where the outcome is the reverse of what was expected

Caricature

An exaggerated portrayal of a person that emphasises their distinguishing features for comic or critical effect

Knowledge Check

Select the correct answer for each question. Click "Check Answer" to see if you are right.

Question 1

Which sentence is an example of hyperbole?

I was so embarrassed I wanted the ground to swallow me whole. She ran quickly to catch the bus. The weather was slightly cold. The film was quite interesting.

Question 2

George Orwell's Animal Farm uses animals to represent political leaders and systems. This is an example of:

Fantasy Satire Biography Horror

Question 3

What is the PRIMARY purpose of satire?

To entertain readers with funny stories about animals To provide accurate news reports To criticise or mock social, political, or human failings, often through humour To write realistic fiction about everyday life

Hyperbole and Satire