Authentic context

http://visualidioms.blogspot.com

The idioms will be better remembered when put in an authentic context. Idioms often appear in popular songs. Asking your students to introduce their favourite songs with idioms they've learned is a way of making learning more authentic and motivating. You can play the songs in the lesson while doing a gap-fill exercise or make a karaoke lesson.

Idioms are better remembered when accompanied by images - either static or moving ones. As a homework assignment, ask your students to watch their favourite movie, sitcom or soap opera in English (it will be easier with subtitles). Their task will be to look for idioms. They will take down as many idioms as possible but they choose one they like best (it can be something they already know or something new). They'll bring the movie to the lesson (it should be something they can find on YouTube). They'll play a short part of the movie containing the idiom, explain the meaning, put it on the board and play the part again. If necessary, they'll also explain the context. It's best if it's something memorable or funny.