Idioms lesson plan learning Objectives

IDIOMS LESSON PLAN

Learning Objectives

After this lesson, students will be able to:

• 
  define the term 'idiom'
  
• 
  identify idioms in text
  

Length:

• 
  1 hour
  

Materials

• 
  Idioms, written on strips of paper and folded
  
• 
  Basket or bag to hold idioms
  

Key Vocabulary

• 
  Figurative
  
• 
  Literal
  
• 
  Idiom
  

Instructions

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  Begin by defining idioms. Explain the difference between 'figurative' and 'literal.' Share a few examples, then ask students to share some with their table partners.
  
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  Ask students if they've ever wondered where idioms come from. Why do we say, 'It's raining cats and dogs,' or wonder if the cat has your tongue?
  
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  Read our Study.com lesson What Is an Idiom? - Definition & Examples as a class. Have students take notes.
  
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  As you work through the examples, create a T-chart labeled 'Figurative' and 'Literal.' Write the idiom and work with students to identify the literal meaning.
  
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  Allow students to work independently on some idioms. If you think those that originated with Shakespeare won't work, you can provide a list of your own. Check for understanding.
  
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  After finishing the text lesson, discuss:
  
  • 
    Why do authors use idioms?
    
  • 
    Why are idioms difficult for non-native speakers?
    
  • 
    Do you prefer literal or figurative language? Explain.
    

Activity

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  Divide students into two teams. Explain that you will be playing charades with idioms.
  
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  Review the rules of charades. Have one student choose a teacher-provided idiom and act it out while the team guesses.
  
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  For an exit slip, have students create their own idiom.
  
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  extensions
  
• 
  
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  Sharing student-created idioms. Allow students to write the meaning directly. Sharing.
  
• 
  
• 
  Ask students to bring examples of idioms from songs to class. Check and discuss.
  
• 
  
• 
  finding idioms in fairy tales and other familiar stories.