5.3.D

Adages and Puns

Adage: An adage is a time-tested, short saying expressing a generally accepted truth.

Example:

Jessica was upset. She hadn’t made the volleyball team. She had practiced so hard, but the coach said there were only six open spots on the team. She could try again next year.

As Jessica walked out the door, she heard someone calling her name. She turned around to see Mr. Dunlop, her English teacher.

“Hi, Mr. Dunlop. Do you need me for something?” asked Jessica.

“Yes!” he replied. “I was hoping that you’d be interested in being in our school play this year. There’s a part that is perfect for you!”

Jessica smiled, cheering up. She loved theater, but she had been so busy practicing for volleyball tryouts that she hadn’t even given the school play a thought.

“I’d love to be in the play, Mr. Dunlop! Thank you for asking!” As she walked away, Jessica thought about what her grandma always said: When one door shuts, another opens. Her grandma was right!

What does the adage mean?

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Other Adages

Don't judge a book by its __________.

The early bird gets the __________.

Don't count your __________ before they hatch.

Pun: A pun is a funny play on words that have double meanings or that sound alike or similar.

Example:

Why it works: The word "extinct" sounds like "ex-stink."

Example:

Why it works: The word school has multiple meanings. It's a place to learn, and it's a group of fish.

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Go to the next page to practice working with adages and puns.

Adages & Puns

Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS): 5.3.D

identify, use, and explain the meaning of adages and puns.

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