TEFL Altamont Kansas

Some may argue slang and idioms should not be taught to esl students because such language is informal, inappropriate and untraditional. However, understanding and speaking in slang and idioms can actually raise the bar in communication. Slangs are developed in different cultures and subcultures. Idioms are used in native speaker's everyday lives and are often found in music, magazines, newspapers and television. Many native speakers are unaware of the use of slangs and idioms in their conversations. That is due to the nature of their language; therefore, many speakers often take for granted that others would understand their use of slangs and idioms. For example, “what's up” is slang for saying “How are you?” Without learning about slang and idioms, non-native english speakers may find difficulty in understanding the message delivered and may failed to communicate in a fun and interesting way. Students should be taught beyond what words and phrases literally mean- they need to be taught slang and idioms! Slang and idioms can be described with a tree diagram. There are universal slang and idioms like, “No way!” or “It ticks me off!” But there are also slang and idioms within countries, geography and subpopulations. In english, people often use the idiom, “You are pulling my leg!” but in spanish it is “!Me estas tomando el pelo!” which literally means “You are taking my hair!” Although the idioms are intended to deliver the same message, different countries say phrases differently. Students, businessman or business-woman, rappers, surfers or doctors, all have their own type of slang and phrases. For example, students may say, “this class is the bomb!” which means this class is really great! Rappers call their friends homies and doctors refer surgeons as blades! Being a part of a subgroup acquires a particular type of language. Imagine if one was never taught the doctor's slang and was required to work for a doctor! There would be a lot of confusing and misunderstanding- and threat to the patient! Another reason to incorporate the teaching of slang and idiom into the course syllabus is that students will find it amusing and interesting. It can give the students a break from all the traditional and formal english they have been learning. Slang and idioms give colour, life and characteristic into the language. It can demonstrate to students that english can be fun and interesting. Being taught slangs and idioms, students are allowed to experiment different ways of expression. There are many fun and interesting ways to introduce slang and idioms. The teacher can pick several slang and idioms and have the students guess what the meaning of the expression is before the teacher explains it to the students. After the students have developed understanding towards the slang and idioms, it is important to have the students practice using them in conversations. Incorporating games and activities can give a little extra kick for the students. The teacher can prepare flashcards for students to play charades. One student must go in front of the class and act out the idiom (e.g. “He is biting off more than he can chew) and have the class guess which idiom it is. The teacher can also bring in authentic materials like television /movie clips, magazines, newspaper, advertisement, songs, and comics for the students. Using authentic materials can give the students a sense of purpose and fulfillment in learning english- allowing them to experience the outside world at a greater level.