Idioms & Proverbs
Recognise and interpret common idioms (break the ice, hit the nail on the head), adages (actions speak louder than words), and proverbs (a stitch in time saves nine), understanding their figurative meanings and when to use them
Suggested ages 9–11
Learning journey
Your child is developing sophisticated language skills — understanding figurative language like metaphors and similes, learning word relationships through synonyms and antonyms, and using Greek and Latin word parts to figure out unfamiliar words.
Evidence of understanding
- Explain the figurative meaning of common idioms encountered in texts, e.g. 'let the cat out of the bag' means to reveal a secret, not literally releasing a cat
- Interpret the meaning and intended lesson of adages and proverbs, e.g. explain that 'the early bird catches the worm' advises that acting promptly gives an advantage
- Use context clues to determine the meaning of an unfamiliar idiom or proverb encountered during reading and verify using a reference source
Assessment prompt
If Idioms & Proverbs hears a saying like "don't judge a book by its cover" or "the early bird catches the worm," do they know what it really means and when you'd use it?
Standards alignment
L.4.5b
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 4
L.5.5b
Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts & Literacy in History/Social Studies, Science, and Technical Subjects · 5