Irony is about expectations and opposites. I teach students that there are three types of irony. Verbal irony is when a character or person says one thing but means the complete opposite. This is more commonly known as sarcasm. Dramatic irony is when a character believes something and the opposite is true. The audience knows that the character is working under false beliefs. This can lead to hilarious or tragic situations. Situational irony is when the complete opposite of what is expected occurs. When most people think of irony, they are thinking of situational irony.
Of all the concepts with which my students struggle, irony may be the most challenging. These resources have been useful in my attempts, I hope that you may too find some use for these.
Irony Lesson 1Here is a great worksheet to help students practice or review irony. They will read examples of irony and determine which of the three types of irony is used (verbal, situational, or dramatic). Then they will explain their answers. Suggested reading level for this text: Grade 5-9.