This lesson is a fun and engaging way for students to learn about idioms. There are activities that incorporate group work, as well as independent work. Students will illustrate their chosen idiom with the literal meaning and then explain the intended meaning in small groups. 

 Figurative language uses words or expressions that go beyond the literal meaning of words to get the message across. Although direct language is easier to understand, in some instances we respond better to more creative wording. For example, writers like to use figurative language to build imagery and give words more power. Idioms are considered some of the highest levels of language processing and some students with language impairments struggle with understanding the meaning of these figurative language. 

Students will develop a deeper understanding of idioms. This lesson aligns with the core standard:Determine the meaning of words and phrases as they are used in a text, including figurative language such as metaphors and similes.This lesson includes video, Nearpod, class discussion, and independent work.Preview image taken from: https://nearpod.com/t/english-language-arts/5th/idioms-barking-up-the-wrong-tree-L38568952

This is a lesson plan for upper elementary teachers who are working on the skill of stating the literal meaning of grade level idioms.

Understanding idioms isn't always a piece of cake. In this funny video, students learn about idioms. They will learn what an idiom is, get familiar with some common idioms, and explore strategies to figure out what an idiom means.

In this lesson students will learn about Idioms. After the lesson and practice students will create their own poster of their favorite Idiom using Adobe Creative Cloud Express.

Dive into the meaning and history of the idiom “it’s raining cats and dogs” with this video from Say What?! Explore possible origins featuring Vikings, sailors, poets, straw roofs, and old English.

Support materials include teaching tips, discussion questions, vocabulary, and an activity where students create a corresponding image and caption for one of the origin stories from the video.

Trace the role of messenger birds throughout history and learn the meaning of the idiom “a little bird told me,” in this video from Say What?! From Ancient Egypt to World War I, this video combines conversational use of the idiom with written stories and legends to showcase its meaning.

This resource includes teaching tips, discussion questions, vocabulary, and a research and writing activity that prompts students to reimagine the “messenger bird.”

Uncover the meaning and historical origins of the popular idiom “when pigs fly” with this video from Say What?! Through engaging animations, students will learn about this quirky expression that is often used to convey something that is highly unlikely to happen. The video explores similar idioms that are used in different languages and cultures, providing insight into the creative ways people express the idea of impossibility. The video also delves into the history of the idiom, tracing its origins back over 400 years!

This resource includes teaching tips, discussion questions, vocabulary, and a critical thinking activity in which students brainstorm possible "when pigs fly" scenarios.