Figurative language can be difficult, especially for ELs. With the help of context clues and exposure to common idioms, it can be a piece of cake! Use this as a stand-alone lesson or as a pre-lesson for the *Take a Walk with Idioms* lesson.
Students will be able to determine the meaning of an idiom using contextual clues.
Language
Students will be able to explain meanings of literal and nonliteral language with declarative sentences using graphic organizers.
Introduction
(2 minutes)
Tell the class that they are going to play a word association game. You will say a word, and they should write down or draw the first word that comes to mind. Say the phrase "peanut butter" and give students time to write a word or sketch a picture. Call on students to share their word association, and explain that the word jelly is often associated with peanut butter.
Repeat the game with the words macaroni (cheese), teachers (school), question (answer).
Focus on the word question and emphasize that an answer is always expected when a question is asked. When we answer a question, we use a declarative sentence, which is a statement.
Explain that today's lesson will be about explaining the meaning of words and phrases using declarative sentences.