When learning a foreign language, idioms are crucial. They are what separates a native speaker from a non-native speaker. Idioms have subtle language nuances that all learners should be aware of. They also carry cultural connotations and meanings; you can tell a lot about a country and its language from its idioms. As a teacher, don’t be afraid to expose your students to idioms. They are the backbone of the language (of any language, especially the English language).
Idioms are also very memorable. They create mental pictures which are often quite unusual, hence easy to remember: just imagine raining cats and dogs, an elephant in a room, or throwing out the baby with the bath water. Even the youngest of students can remember them.
