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Idioms in the classroom: an investigation of language unit and mainstream teachers' use of idioms

Department of Human Communication, De Montfort University, Scraptoft, Leicester LE7 9SU, UK

Pam Grunwell

Department of Human Communication, De Montfort University, Scraptoft, Leicester LE7 9SU, UK

Contrary to the belief of six language unit teachers that they rarely used idioms in the classroom, this study reveals an average usage by these teachers of 1. 73 idioms per minute. While the idiomatic status of commonly-used expressions is apparently overlooked by native English speakers, frequently-occurring idioms may nevertheless present difficulties to some children with language disorders or autism. Rather than seeking to avoid these idioms in interaction with such children - as has been recommended - it is argued that teachers should use idioms with greater awareness, monitor children's understanding, provide explanations for unfamiliar expressions and reinforce comprehension across settings.

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