Idioms are Confusing! Build Language with a Classroom Idiom Activity

Sometimes it’s hard to remember the meaning of idioms that you’ve read or heard in conversation. It’s only when you hear them used again do you remember. That’s why our Idiom Bingo game is designed for students to play – to practice remembering the meaning of common idioms in the English language. The fun way for students to study idioms!

🎲To play, students listen to the calling card which translates an idiom into simple, easy-to-understand language. They must cover the idiom if it appears on their BINGO board.

Through this activity, students will show increased understanding of common idioms in the English language.

Tips for Differentiation + Scaffolding 

A team of dedicated, experienced educators created this resource to support your English Language Arts and Vocabulary lessons. 

In addition to individual student work time, use this vocabulary game to enhance learning through guided writing groups, whole class lessons, or remote learning assignments. 

• In addition to 5-in-a-row, play alternate forms of BINGO like 4 Corners, + Plus Sign, Blackout, X-Out. 
• Support students who need help understanding the concepts by pairing teams to work together to identify the idioms. 

Plan lessons for all ability levels with our 10 Best Scaffolding Strategies! 

Easily Prepare This Resource for Your Students

Use the dropdown icon on the Download button to choose between the PDF or Google Slides version of this resource. 

Print on cardstock for added durability and longevity. Place all pieces in a folder or large envelope for easy access. 

This resource was created by Lindsey Phillips, a teacher in Michigan and a  Teach Starter Collaborator.

Don’t stop there! We’ve got more activities and resources that cut down on lesson planning time:  

teaching resource Idioms: What Are They and What Do They Mean? PowerPoint An editable PowerPoint presentation to use when teaching idioms. teaching resource Idioms Poster A poster giving the definition for and examples of idioms. teaching resource Interesting Idioms Worksheet A worksheet using common idioms.