Anyone who has ever learned a new language knows that the hardest part is learning how to use expressions, or idioms, correctly. Idioms are not easily understood by the words they use. For example, if an English learner hears, “This jacket costs an arm and a leg,” he or she can become very confused. Or if they hear a weatherperson say, “It’s raining cats and dogs,” they may look outside expecting to see cats and dogs falling from the sky. However, idioms are used throughout conversations on a daily basis. Therefore, it is extremely important that the English learner understand the complicated meanings in order to fully participate in the American experience. "English Basics: Your Complete Guide to American Idioms" is the perfect way for English language learners to navigate the challenging use of American idioms in everyday conversation. Each volume in this series focuses on 80 idioms commonly used today. Idioms are put in groups of 4 so the student doesn’t get overwhelmed. After the student masters the 4 idioms, there is an assessment to determine if he or she is ready for the next set. Definition: First, the idiom is introduced. Then, a definition or definitions are given that give different understandings of the idiom. Explanation: After that, the idiom is explained in depth, talking about its origin and literal meaning. Grammar Watch: This section explains how the idiom is used properly in a sentence and whether it is a verb, adjective, noun, etc. Examples: Once the student has a basic understanding of the idiom, three examples show the student how the idiom is used in context, focusing on verbs in different tenses. Reading Comprehension: The four idioms in each group are used in an original reading that helps the student see how the idioms can be used together. Self Test: The self-test after each group of 4 idioms gives the student an opportunity to test his or her ability to recognize whether or not the idiom is being used correctly. Simply read the sentence and write ‘correct’ or ‘incorrect’ after the sentence. The correct answers are given below.
Robert Proctor and Darin French have worked for the past 20 years helping people learn English and prepare for their U.S. Citizenship Interviews.
Robert Proctor has taught citizenship and English as a Second Language classes in Los Angeles since 1996 and has helped hundreds of immigrants to pass their U.S. citizenship interviews. He is the co-author of several citizenship and ESL textbooks which are used by school districts, citizenship programs, and students across the United States. Robert regularly gives presentations at ESL/Citizenship conferences and workshops. Mr. Proctor received his degree from the University of California at Santa Barbara is a credentialed ESL and Citizenship Instructor for the Los Angeles Unified School District.
Darin French taught U.S. History, Government, Basic Language Arts, ESL and ESL/Citizenship for the Los Angeles Unified School District for eight years. He started Southern California Educational Services in 2012 and has written, produced, and published numerous citizenship and English language textbooks. He has He has also served as a CBET coordinator, ESL teacher advisor, and participated on several textbook selection committees and WASC accreditation teams. He received his BA in History and Political Science from the University of California at Los Angeles.
