Classroom Language

[Jorge Obregón]

We teach Eglish as a subject for k-12 students. Since our students are not native speakers, we have tried to make the language learning as explanatory as possible. In the beginners groups everything runs smoothly, but the more advanced ones face difficulties while working with idioms or typical English phrases.

[Frank]

Quoted from Dave (I agree) ..

"Re: How to teach Idioms?
I wouldn't advise teaching idioms persay unless the students are "extra extra" motivated by doing so. Why? Idioms are the toughest of language to retain and are sooo specific to context/situation. Also, unless your students are in an English speaking country, other than the most basic handful, they won't have any opportunity to use them and as we know, without production there is dead space....

I'd suggest one good way to learn idioms (disregarding my advice above :)) is to use short video clips where the idiom is used in context. That's about the most beneficial way.

Hope this helps .

DD (ddeubel)"

There are lots of great video sites out there, namely YouTube, BlipTV, TeacherTube, Google VIdeo, MetaCafe, etc (click to see some examples). Just use the search feature (i.e. "idiom" or a specific idiom). You can also make your own situtational videos in context with other teachers, friends, and students ... then reuse them over and over (plus publish them to YouTube and other video sites to share ... even here at META.

So, bringing technology into the classroom, may just be the answer for more controlled exposure. Of course, good ole' face-to-face conversation (clubs, coffee chats, groups, friends) also stimulates social use of the language (which idioms is) is a more open, authentic and personalized way.

I pick up oodles of Spanish phrases from watching a lot of Mexican telenovelas. I have to work out the meaning for myself from the context. By struggling a bit, I "own" it and internalize or acquire the language in a "stickier" way. This autonomous discovery seems to help my a lot. Then I double check the meaning later with friends and coworkers. After that I pester everyone by overusing the idiom or phrase every chance I get. Hehe!

[Belemtu]

This is something really difficult because the language it's always changing so if you don't live on the native country it would be really difficult to learn everything something that you can do it's to speak or chat with a native speaker.
Well see you =)
taake care
ps. I invite you to leave a comment in my topic called "Kinesthetic kids. How should we act?"
thank you
bay =)

[Michael Nolan]

Rather than concentrating on idioms per se, try to introduce more authentic English into your classes (particularly at advanced levels). Vocabulary (including idioms) should always be taught in context.