Here is a table with the meaning and usage of the top 20 idioms used for a Primary 5 English student:
| Idiom | Meaning | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| A piece of cake | Very easy | “Don’t worry about the test, it’ll be a piece of cake.” |
| Actions speak louder than words | What someone does is more important than what they say | “Don’t just promise to do it, show me – actions speak louder than words.” |
| Beat around the bush | Avoiding the main topic or delaying a discussion | “Stop beating around the bush and tell me what’s on your mind.” |
| Biting off more than you can chew | Attempting something that is too difficult or challenging | “Don’t bite off more than you can chew and overwhelm yourself with too much homework.” |
| Break a leg | Good luck | “Break a leg on your audition!” |
| Cut corners | Do something in the easiest or cheapest way, sacrificing quality | “We don’t have much time, but don’t cut corners on the project.” |
| Don’t cry over spilt milk | Don’t regret or worry about something that has already happened | “You forgot to study for the test, but don’t cry over spilt milk, focus on doing better next time.” |
| Get the hang of something | Learn or understand something after practicing or doing it a few times | “It took me a while, but I finally got the hang of solving algebra equations.” |
| Hit the nail on the head | Correctly identify or solve a problem | “You hit the nail on the head, that’s exactly what we need to do to improve our project.” |
| It’s not rocket science | Something that is not difficult to understand | “Don’t overthink it, it’s not rocket science.” |
| Keep your chin up | Stay positive and don’t give up | “You didn’t get the part, but keep your chin up, there will be other opportunities.” |
| Let the cat out of the bag | Reveal a secret | “Don’t let the cat out of the bag, this surprise party is supposed to be a secret.” |
| Put all your eggs in one basket | Relying on one thing or person for success | “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket, apply to multiple universities.” |
| See eye to eye | Agree on something | “We finally see eye to eye on the project.” |
| The ball is in your court | It’s your turn to make a decision or take action | “The ball is in your court, it’s up to you to decide what to do next.” |
| Time flies | Time passes quickly | “I can’t believe it’s already time to go home, time flies when you’re having fun.” |
| Under the weather | Feeling unwell or sick | “I’m feeling under the weather, I think I caught a cold.” |
| You can’t judge a book by its cover | You can’t judge someone or something by their appearance | “She may look quiet, but you can’t judge a book by its cover.” |
| Your guess is as good as mine | I don’t know the answer either | “I don’t know why she’s upset, your guess is as good as mine.” |
| Zip your lip | Be quiet and don’t talk | “Zip your lip and pay attention to the lesson.” |
These idioms are commonly used in daily conversations and can help improve language comprehension, vocabulary, and effective communication skills for Primary 5 English students.
For enrolment details, click here
Learning idioms is a vital component of English language development. At the age of 11, children in Primary 5 are at an essential stage in their language learning journey, and it is crucial to provide them with a strong foundation in idioms to enable them to communicate effectively and confidently.
The top 20 idioms chosen for an 11-year-old child are age-appropriate, practical, and commonly used in daily conversations. These idioms are simple and easy to understand, making them accessible to children at this age. By learning and using these idioms, children can improve their language comprehension, vocabulary, and overall communication skills.
One of the primary reasons why these idioms were chosen for an 11-year-old child is that they are practical. These idioms are commonly used in various settings, including school, home, and social gatherings. By learning and using these idioms, children can improve their communication skills and build confidence in their ability to express themselves. Using idioms correctly also helps children to avoid misunderstandings and misinterpretations, which can improve their social interactions and reduce the likelihood of conflict.
Furthermore, these idioms help children to understand the nuances of the English language. Idioms often use figurative language, which can be challenging for non-native speakers to understand. By learning these idioms, children can develop their ability to understand and interpret figurative language, which is a valuable skill for effective communication. Additionally, idioms provide an excellent opportunity to introduce humor into language learning, making it more enjoyable for children.
Another reason why these idioms were chosen is that they help children to expand their knowledge and understanding of the world. Many idioms have a cultural or historical background, and learning about the origins of these idioms can be a fun and engaging way to broaden a child’s knowledge and curiosity about the world. This can also help children to develop an appreciation for different cultures and traditions, promoting cultural awareness and diversity.
Moreover, idioms are an excellent way to promote critical thinking and problem-solving skills. By learning idioms, children can develop their ability to think creatively and find unique solutions to problems. Understanding the figurative meaning of idioms can also help children to recognize and interpret symbolism in literature and other forms of media, improving their comprehension and analysis skills.
In conclusion, the top 20 idioms chosen for an 11-year-old child are age-appropriate, practical, and commonly used in daily conversations. By learning and using these idioms, children can improve their language comprehension, vocabulary, and communication skills, while also developing an appreciation for language, culture, and diversity. It is crucial to expose children to a variety of idioms and expressions to help them develop a broad and nuanced understanding of the English language, promoting their academic, social, and personal growth.
For the latest in SEAB PSLE English Syllabus, here.
