Idioms Chart
An idiom is a saying that means something different from its words. Learn what each one really means, then try using it when you talk.
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How to do it
- Read each idiom and what it really means.
- Talk about which ones you've heard before.
- Pick one to try using today.
Teaching tip
Keep the chart nearby while your student works on the other pages. This sheet is aligned with Common Core L.4.5b.
About this chart
Twenty-four idioms grouped by animals, food, the body and weather, each with what it really means.
What kids practice
An idiom is a saying that means something different from its words, like "in a pickle" for being in a tricky situation. Idioms come up all the time in conversation, so understanding and using them helps students follow what people mean and join in. These sheets are about talking: explaining idioms, choosing one that fits a moment and using them out loud. They use a different set of idioms from the 4th grade Reading topic.
Watch for
- Taking an idiom word for word, like picturing a real fish out of water.
- Using an idiom in the wrong situation, where its meaning doesn't fit.
- Changing the words of an idiom so it no longer makes sense.
- Knowing what an idiom means but never using it.
It's free to print, as many copies as you need. See the full idioms guide for 4th grade.
More sheets in this set
2. Explain It to a FriendIdioms like "a fish out of water" in example sentences, to explain out loud and then write the meaning. Fewer, Standard or More give 4, 5 or 6. Includes an answer key.
3. When Would You Say ItSituations like "A friend invites you over, but you're busy," each with three idioms to choose from. Fewer, Standard or More give 5, 6 or 7. Includes an answer key.
4. Finish the ConversationShort two-person conversations with a missing idiom to fill in from a word box. Fewer, Standard or More give 4, 5 or 6. Includes an answer key.
5. Act It Out CardsEight idiom cards to cut out and act out, each with what the idiom means.
6. Use It About YourselfPrompts like "Tell about a time you were in a pickle" to answer out loud with the idiom. Fewer, Standard or More give 3, 4 or 5.
7. Idiom Talk GameA board game for 2 to 4 players with idioms on the spaces and a few special spaces. All you need is a coin and a small marker for each player.
8. Idiom of the Day LogFive idioms for a week, Monday to Friday, with space to write what each means and when you used it.