How to teach idioms can be a challenge especially for our ESL students.

Each day, we all use idioms, or symbolic language, in our conversations to enhance the meaning of our statement. But, what is an idiom, exactly?

Do you have a friend that is a free spirit? Free spirit is an idiom meaning “one who freely lives his life his way”.

Have you told someone to “sleep tight”? Sleep tight is an idiom meaning “to get a good night’s sleep”. This idiom dates back to when beds were made with wood frames and rope to support a mattress. Each night, the ropes would be tightened to help provide the person a restful night’s sleep.

“An idiom is a phrase, saying or a group of words that has a metaphorical (not literal) meaning, which has become accepted in common usage. An idiom’s symbolic sense is quite different from the literal meaning or definition of the words of which it is made.” (Source: theidioms.com)

There are literally hundreds of idioms in the English vernacular. I have compiled 30 common idiom posters that I can use in my classroom along with my many other visual aids and anchor charts. I have also included an interactive notebook page for my students to add to their phonic notebooks.

Take a Peek

I laminated my posters but you could easily print them on card stock and switch them out weekly in a page protector.

I created these free idiom posters for my email subscribers. Please fill out the form below and you will receive the PDF instantly via email. Please check your spam folder. I create several freebies each week so you will always have something to look forward to.

Thank you for sharing these free idiom posters with others to enjoy.