Idioms and Vocabulary of the Day

In order to enrich your health, a daily dose of nutrition is

required---healthy food, vitamins, water. In order to
enrich your body, a daily dose of exercise is
required---walking, weight- lifting, playing sports. In
order to enrich your mind, a daily dose of knowledge is
required---reading, history, language.
This is the idea behind this daily dose of
idioms and vocabulary: to enrich your language, your
speech, and of course, your mind. o, each day, as you
walk into class you will copy the idiom of the day with the
de!nition, and the vocabulary word of the day with the
de!nition, as well.
"our daily assignment is to write a #scenario$ %one
or more sentences& using the idiom to show your
understanding of the idiom.
In addition, you must write a sentence using the vocabulary
word to show the correct meaning of the word. I cannot
accept a sentence such as, #I don't understand the meaning
of the word, sullen.$ or #(y teacher wants me to write a
sentence with the word, sullen.$ )et it*
If you have any questions on this assignment, or any
other assignment, please +,.
Idioms, 1
st
6 weeks, Week 1
Monday: 1. straight from the horses mouth 2. monkey around
Tuesday: 3. all ark and no ite
Wednesday: !. goose is "ooked
Thursday: #. take the ull y the horns
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - -
Monday
Idiom . straight from the horses mouth
Meaning . information directly from the source, not from
someone else
How It Is Used . (y brother told me that our parents were going to
take us to
,ing's +musement /ark next weekend, but I didn't believe him. I
decided to ask my dad, so I'd hear it straight from the horses mouth.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in
which straight from the horses mouth is used as an idiom.
2 /aul had 3ust shown /olly how to put a bridle on his horse, 4awn.
5hen /olly went to remove the bridle, she pulled it straight from the
horses mouth.
6 7here were rumors that we would be having a class party on 4riday. I
asked our teacher so that I'd hear it straight from the horses mouth.
Idiom . monkey around
Meaning . fool around8 goof o98 play instead of work
How It Is Used . 4reddie and his friends were splashing and
squirting one another in the pool. :is sister 7erry
and her friends did not want to get wet. 7hey
asked the boys to stop monkeying around.
Which Is Right . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in
which monkey around is used as an idiom.
2 ;onnie and her mom loved the <oo. 5hen they entered the
primates' area, they found themselves surrounded by apes, chimps,
and lemurs. ;onnie pointed out a feisty monkey around the banana
tree. :e called and screeched until ;onnie threw a peanut for him.
6 =ake and his friends were en3oying their time on the beach. ;efore
long, they were kicking sand and tossing one another into the water.
7he lifeguard blew his whistle and instructed them to stop monkeying
around. If they didn't, they would be asked to leave the beach.
Tuesday
Idiom . all bark and no bite
Meaning . something that seems vicious or ferocious, but
is really harmless or kind
How It Is Used . >yle didn't like going to his friend =acob's house
when =acob's big brother was there. :is brother
always seemed so mean. ;ut when >yle spent the
weekend at =acob's house, he reali<ed that =acob's
brother was all bark and no bite.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in
which all bark and no bite is used as an idiom.
2 am was not sure whether to trust the new class pet, a foot-long
snake. It looked so scary and hissed. ;ut when am was chosen to care
for it for the week, he reali<ed that the snake was all bark and no bite.
6 (y three-year-old sister had always been afraid of our neighbor's
dogs. 7hey were always barking and waking her up. ;ut when she got
to know them, she reali<ed they were friendly. #7hese dogs all bark
and no bite,$ she said in baby talk.
Wednesday
Idiom . goose is cooked
Meaning . in trouble8 caught doing something wrong
How It Is Used . 0ose was sure she could sneak in her late research
paper to (r. 4arley without getting caught. he simply shoved it in a
stack when no one was looking. 7he next day, when (r. 4arley called
0ose over to his desk, she knew her goose was cooked?
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
goose is
cooked is used as an idiom.
2 +unt (ae had a wonderful meal planned for the family get-together.
+ll she told us was that the main dish was a surprise. 4inally, it was
time to eat? +unt (ae called for @ncle :arold to get ready to carve
because the goose was cooked.
6 ;rian had promised he would keep the family's new puppy out of
trouble while his parents were away. 5hile ;rian was playing video
games, the puppy was busy chewing on shoes and gnawing on
furniture? ;rian did his best to hide the evidence, but when his parents
opened the door, he was still holding a nibbled shoe. ;rian knew right
then that his goose was cooked.
Thursday
Idiom . take the bull by the horns
Meaning . take charge8 face or confront a diAcult task
How It Is Used . Bur principal, (rs. chult<, raced into the cafeteria
to put a stop to the food !ght. 5hen she demanded that those
responsible for starting it step forward, no one spoke. he threatened
to expel every student who threw food. >ater, 1hris, who had thrown
the !rst wad of mashed potatoes, decided to take the bull by the horns
and admit he started it.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
take the bull by the horns is used as an idiom.
2 Co one in =e9rey's class wanted to be the !rst one to present his or
her report. =e9rey decided to take the bull by the horns and volunteer
to go !rst.
6 =oseph wanted to see a real bull!ght while his family was on vacation
in pain.
Idioms, 1
st
6 weeks, Week 2
Monday: 1. got off on the wrong foot 2. nose out of $oint
Tuesday: 3. a tongue%lashing
Wednesday: !. shake a leg
Thursday: #. fight tooth and nail
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - -
Monday
Idiom . got of on the rong foot
Meaning . a bad start
How It Is Used . (om thought =enny would make a great babysitter,
but we simply got of on the wrong foot. +s soon as the door shut
behind my parents, =enny started ordering me around, and she
wouldn't let me watch what I wanted on 7V. o I went to my room and
slammed my bedroom door.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
got of on the wrong foot is used as an idiom.
2 (egan was so excited to have =ill meet her friend, ue. ;ut the two
girls got of on the wrong foot. =ill was insulted that ue demanded to
do all the things she wanted to do, and the girls couldn't do anything
=ill or (egan wanted to do.
6 4rank was certain he and =eremy would win the sack race at the
picnic. ;ut when the boys began to 3ump, =eremy got of on the wrong
foot, and they both fell to the ground.
Idiom . nose out of !oint
Meaning . upset8 disgusted8 unhappy
How It Is Used . Ian felt left out when he was the last one picked for
the Dag football game. 0ather than get his nose out of oint, he played
hard during the game and proved his worth on the team. Cext time, he
wouldn't be the last pick.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
nose out of oint is used as an idiom.
2 (arty is the !rst baseman on our baseball team. >ast aturday, a
ball hit him in the face and afterward, it looked like his nose was out of
oint.
6 (om seemed nervous when she showed Dad the mail. he hoped he
wouldn't get his nose out of oint when he saw how much she spent on
our school clothes.
Tuesday
Idiom . a tongue"lashing
Meaning . scold8 speak harshly to
How It Is Used . )ina knew she was in big trouble when she broke her
mom's favorite lamp. he was in for a real tongue!lashing about
respecting other people's things.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which a
tongue!lashing is used as an idiom.

2 1indy was surprised at how spicy the (exican food was. he felt like
her mouth was on !re. :er cousin suggested she give herself a tongue!
lashing with an ice cube to ease the pain.
6 =e9 meant well when he took his neighbor's mail to him. 5hen he
handed over the stack of letters, he was surprised when (r. =ones gave
him a tongue!lashing for opening his mailbox. =e9 promised never to
touch his neighbor's mail again.
Wednesday
Idiom . shake a leg
Meaning . move quickly8 hurry up8 dance
How It Is Used . 5ith (om out of town on a business trip, )eorge and
)ary really had to shake a leg each morning to be ready in time for
their dad to take them to school.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
shake a leg is used as an idiom.
2 Every time we would rub the belly of our old dog, 5hiskers, he would
always shake a leg.
6 Doris and amantha had one more night to !nish their science
pro3ect for school. ince they got started late, they would really have to
shake a leg to complete it on time.
Thursday
Idiom . #ght tooth and nail
Meaning . make a great e9ort to challenge or oppose someone
or something8 !ght back hard
How It Is Used . 7he three student council members were determined
to change some things in the lunchroom. 7hey fought tooth and nail to
allow the sale of ice cream during lunch.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
"ght tooth and nail is used as an idiom.
2 >eah's mom wanted her to get rid of some of her old toys. >eah
agreed to throw out some old stu9ed animals, but she fought tooth
and nail to keep her doll collection.
6 5e brought our two dogs in to the grooming shop for haircuts, but
they always want to !ght tooth and nail !lings and trimmings.
Idioms & 1
st
6 weeks, Week 3
Monday $. didnt have a leg to stand on %. the cold
shoulder
Tuesday &. a pain in the neck
'ednesday (. get out of hand
Thursday ). breathing don ones neck
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - -
Monday
Idiom . didnt have a leg to stand on
Meaning . unsupported8 without something to back up a person
How It Is Used . 5hen 0afael's mom yelled at him about leaving an
empty milk 3ug in the refrigerator, he didn't bother to argue. 5ith all
the other times he had done this, he knew he didnt ha#e a leg to
stand on.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
didnt ha#e a leg to stand on is used as an idiom. 1ircle the number of
your choice.
2 Dawn felt badly for the poor kitten in the window. It only had three
legs. #:ow does she get up without a leg to stand on*$ she asked the
pet shop owner.
6 Bwen didn't expect the store to give him a hard time when he
returned his broken watch. 7he warranty clearly covered the watch for
all problems, so he knew the store didnt ha#e a leg to stand on.
Idiom . the cold shoulder
Meaning . ignore8 act unfriendly8 show no interest
How It Is Used . 4iona didn't understand when +manda gave her the
cold shoulder at school on (onday. 7he two girls had a great time at a
sleepover party on aturday. /erhaps 4iona did or said something at
the party to upset her friend.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
the cold shoulder is used as an idiom.
2 (ike was still upset with his older brother, =ames, for calling him
names in front of his friends. Even though =ames apologi<ed, (ike
continued to give his brother the cold shoulder.
6 Vera decided to bring a 3acket to wear over her sleeveless dress. It
might be chilly in the evening, she thought, and she didn't want to
have a cold shoulder.
Tuesday
Idiom . a pain in the neck
Meaning . bothersome8 annoying
How It Is Used . 1arl was tired when he got home from school.
:aving to take out the dog and feed the !sh seemed like a big $ain in
the neck to him.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
$ain in the neck is used as an idiom.
2 /edro was looking forward to spending time playing video games
with his friends. :e was upset to learn that his mom expected him to
include his little sister in the competition. he constantly complained
and whined during the games and was a complete $ain in the neck.
6 (andy knew she slept with her head bent in an awkward position
because when she woke up in the morning, she had a throbbing $ain in
the neck.
'ednesday
Idiom . get out of hand
Meaning . not in control
How It Is Used . 7he class en3oyed the holiday party. 7hings got out of
hand, though, when Derek challenged Fack to a cupcake-eating
contest. 7hey dropped icing and crumbs all over the place?
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
get out of hand is used as an idiom.
2 =uggles the 1lown was putting on a great performance at our
assembly. 7he show got out of hand, however, when his water balloons
exploded and splashed the audience. 7hat was not part of the act?
6 0amona was excited to show her mom the ladybug she found on the
leaf. 5hen she opened her tiny !st, however, she discovered the insect
had gotten out of her hand and escaped.
Thursday
Idiom . breathing don ones neck
Meaning . pay close attention to someone or his or her actions
so much that it's bothersome8 watch closely
How It Is Used . ,yle always seemed to get into trouble in the
cafeteria. 7he assistant principal started breathing down his neck in
the lunchroom until ,yle began following the rules.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
breathing down ones neck is used as an idiom.
2 =oshua liked to show how his pet li<ard would climb on his head and
down his back. #It really tickles when he breathes down my neck,$ he
says.
6 7he chemicals in the science lab needed to be handled with care.
Ever since >orraine dropped a bottle of iodine, (r. :endrix had been
breathing down her neck in the lab.
Idioms & 2
nd
6 weeks, Week 1
Monday $. *go+ #fty"#fty %. think tice
Tuesday &. no to ays about it
'ednesday (. nickel and dime
Thursday ). put to and to together
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - -
Monday
Idiom . *go+ #fty"#fty
Meaning . give half of something to someone else8 split
something evenly between two people
How It Is Used . with 3ust one piece of cake left, ;rian and ;randon
were ready to battle over who would get the last piece. Instead of
!ghting, ;rian suggested they split it "fty!"fty. ;randon watched
closely as his brother cut the slice of cake in half.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
%go& "fty!"fty is used as an idiom.
2 >ars was upset with how slowly his mom seemed to be driving to his
friend's birthday party. 7hey were already late? 5hen they turned down
the street to look for the address, >ars spotted the number and
shouted, #7here it isG"fty!"fty (eadow treet?$
6 ;oth Dawn and :aley didn't have quite enough money to buy a pair
of earrings they were admiring. #>et's go "fty!"fty, and we can share
them,$ :aley said. 7he girls each gave an equal amount
Idiom . think tice
Meaning . to consider carefully before doing something8 give
extra time to think before following through
How It Is Used . Vera had been working on being nicer to her little
brother. 5hen he was in the bathtub, she thought twice about
pounding on the door to scare him. Instead, she knocked softly, and
asked when he would be done.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
think twice is used as an idiom.
2 5hen completing a math problem, =enny liked to think twice and
write once. he almost always earned a perfect score on her math
papers using this strategy.
6 /enny had been saving her money for a new game for months?
5hen she !nally had enough, she thought twice about her purchase.
he didn't want to waste all the money she had saved.
Tuesday
Idiom . no to ays about it
Meaning . no doubt8 certain8 absolutely true
How It Is Used . + day at the beach is the best way to spend a
weekend, no two ways about it.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which no
two ways about it is used as an idiom.
2 =acob won every academic competition in the tri-county area. Cext,
he will compete at the state level. =acob is a fact machine, no two ways
about it.
6 5hen Bpal asked for directions to her friend >ila's house, >ila
explained the confusion over the one-way streets that led to her
house. #4irst treet is a one-way road, so be sure to take the second
left because there are no two ways about it.$
'ednesday
Idiom . nickel and dime
Meaning . small amounts of money8 not worth much8 charge
small amounts of money that can add up to a lot
How It Is Used . (r. 4ox thought his car repairs would only total about
HIJJ.
;ut when he went to pay, he saw the repair shop included many
nickel!and!dime charges that brought his bill to over HKJJ.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
nickel and dime is used as an idiom.
2 (y teacher !nds great !eld trips for our class. he is careful to
review all the costs up front. he wants to be sure the places we go to
don't nickel and dime our school for every little charge.
6 4ran wanted the candy bar on the counter at the gas station, but she
was IK cents short. 5hen she dug a little deeper in her pockets, she
found the nickel and dime she needed for her sweet treat.
Thursday
Idiom . put two and two together
Meaning . to !gure out something by using the information you
have
How It Is Used . I didn't know if my mom had already left, but when I
saw her car was gone, I $ut two and two together.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
$ut two and two together is used as an idiom.
2 +ngela thought she would get IJJ percent on her math exam, so
she was mad when she reali<ed that she got one problem wrong
because she made a mistake 3ust $utting two and two together?
6 I couldn't understand why my sister didn't want to go to the movies
with her friends, but when I found out that my mom agreed to take her
shopping, I $ut two and two together.
Idioms, 2
nd
6 weeks, Week 2
Monday $. one step ahead %. on all fours
Tuesday &. forty winks
'ednesday (. put in one's two cents
Thursday ). touch %it& with a ten-foot pole
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - -
Monday
Idiom . one step ahead
Meaning . be better prepared8 be more successful8 make more
progress than others
How It Is Used . (r. 4ielding tackled one new pro3ect each weekend.
7his way, he felt he could stay one ste$ ahead in maintaining his
house.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
one ste$ ahead is used as an idiom.
2 7he dog trainer showed the class how to walk with our dogs at our
side. 5hen our dog got one ste$ ahead of us, we were supposed to tug
on his leash to get him back in line.
6 +shley did some of next week's homework over the weekend. he
wanted to stay one ste$ ahead of her homework schedule so she could
continue with piano lessons and soccer during the week and not fall
behind in school.
Idiom . on all fours
Meaning . on hands and knees
How It Is Used . (iss /eterson's kindergarten class visited the !re
department. 7he students learned how to stop, drop,
and roll. 7hen they practiced crawling on all fours to
stay under smoke.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which on
all fours is used as an idiom.
2 >arry's mom couldn't !nd the family's new kitten. he even got
down on all fours to look under the beds, tables, and chairs. 4inally, the
kitten sprang to freedom when she opened the pantry door.
6 1helsea tried to put little mittens on all four of her kitten's paws. ;ut
the kitten bit them o9 before she even took two steps.
Tuesday
Idiom . forty inks
Meaning . nap8 sleep
How It Is Used . 1amp ,aleidoscope was fun, but tiring? :ilda lay on
her bunk to catch forty winks between craft time and swimming. 7his
way, she hoped to have enough energy to sing around the camp!re
long into the night.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
forty winks is used as an idiom.
2 )ina tried to trick her sister into believing a secret code would
unlock her bedroom door. #=ust make forty winks while touching one
!nger to your nose. 7hen say L)ina is Mueen' ten times, and the door
will unlock.$
6 (r. Cester's class was on its way back from a !eld trip to the marina.
7he students were tired from a day of walking. +bout half the students
took forty winks on the bus ride back to school.
'ednesday
Idiom . put in ones to cents
Meaning . include one's opinion8 speak up8 say something to
contribute to a discussion
How It Is Used . :olly thought her mom's punishment for treating her
brother poorly was unfair. he knew better, though, than to $ut in her
two cents, or else her mom would think she was talking back. ;etter to
keep quiet and take the punishment.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
$ut in ones two cents is used as an idiom.
2 helby's team was not happy about including )ale. )ale was a good
enough athlete, but she would always $ut in her two cents after the
team had made a decision.
6 /ete wanted to double his chances. Instead of the usual penny, he
$ut in his two cents at the wishing pond. 7hen he wished for a new
bike for his birthday.
Thursday
Idiom . touch *it+ ith a ten"foot pole
Meaning . not get close to something8 not get involved with
something8 stay away from something
How It Is Used . =ared's little brother likes to chase him holding li<ards
and frogs.
=ared always runs away. 7hose animals are something =ared wouldnt
touch with a ten!foot $ole.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
touch %it& with a ten!foot $ole is used as an idiom.
2 5hen they came across what looked to be a dead raccoon, ;lake
and ;rett ran home and grabbed an extendable pole from the garage.
#"ou go ahead,$ urged ;lake. #'ouch it with a ten!foot $ole. If it 3umps,
get ready to run.$
6 )abrielle liked debates and giving speeches. :er friend 0achel was
afraid to stand up in front of any group of people. 5hen asked to begin
their school debate, 0achel declined, telling )abrielle, #I wouldn't
touch that ob with a ten!foot $ole.$
Idioms, 2
nd
6 weeks, Week 3
Monday $. piece of cake %. hit the hay
Tuesday &. in the driver's seat
'ednesday (. blow a fuse
Thursday ). the short end of the stick
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - - -
Monday
Idiom . piece of cake
Meaning . easy to do8 something that requires no e9ort
How It Is Used . =acob was known for his steady hand and keen eye.
:e and
his friends played a game where they had to pull out an ob3ect from
the game board without setting o9 the alarm. 5hen =acob learned the
rules, he smiled and thought, #7his will be a $iece of cake.$
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
$iece of cake is used as an idiom.
2 Bnce 0honda had mastered all the multiplication facts, her teacher
told the class they had a test the next day. #7his should be a $iece of
cake,$ 0honda thought.
6 7he party at the roller rink was going well. +fter skating, everyone
had some pi<<a and then had a $iece of cake.
Idiom . hit the hay
Meaning . go to bed8 go to sleep
How It Is Used . (y friends and I decided our regular sleepover would
be better if we camped in the backyard. It was almost midnight when
my mom popped her head inside the tent. #It's time to hit the hay,
boys,$ she said.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which hit
the hay is used as an idiom.
2 I en3oyed spending time on my cousin's farm, but it was hard work.
4irst we woke up really early, at sunrise. 7hen we took care of the
animals. Cext we hit the hay, cleaning and re!lling the horse stalls with
fresh hay. 4inally, it was time for lunch.
6 Bur day on the water was a lot of fun, but all that time in the sun
was tiring. =ust a couple of hours after dinner, my dad mumbled, #I'm
ready to hit the hay.$
Tuesday
Idiom . in the drivers seat
Meaning . in control of something8 having an advantage
How It Is Used . #:alibut's does a really good business,$ my friend
noted. #7hey carry supplies for unusual reptiles and amphibians. 7hey
also carry saltwater !sh and exotic birds. ;eing the only pet shop in
town to have these odd animals really puts them in the dri#ers seat.$
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which in
the dri#ers seat is used as an idiom.
2 (y dad was looking all over for his car keys. I o9ered to help and
started looking all over the house. It wasn't until I went out to the car
that I looked through the window and saw them in the dri#ers seat.
6 Eddie has a batting cage in his backyard. 5hen our team wants to
practice, Eddie gets to decide the time. Bwning the batting cage really
puts him in the dri#ers seat.
'ednesday
Idiom . blo a fuse
Meaning . become suddenly angry8 get mad
How It Is Used . (om had let me use her credit card to buy new
school clothes. he was always careful with her money. he gave me a
limit and told me to not go over it. he is going to blow a fuse when
she !nds out how much I spent.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
blow a fuse is used as an idiom.
2 0ichard blew a fuse when he found out his little sister had been in
his room. #7his sign clearly says DB CB7 EC7E0?$ he shouted at her.
#0ichard, leave her alone,$ (om said. #"ou know your baby sister can't
read.$
6 (y friends and I like to !x up our hair when we sleep over. >ast time,
we had so many hair dryers and curling irons plugged in, Dad was
worried we'd blow a fuse.
Thursday
Idiom . the short end of the stick
Meaning . to su9er the bad e9ects of a situation8 to not give
credit to someone
How It Is Used . +unt =ill was never very good at cutting a cake into
even pieces. 7he last person served got the short end of the stick. 7hat
piece was always the smallest and had the least amount of frosting.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
the short end of the stick is used as an idiom.
2 0obin and ,athy like to go sledding. ince ,athy was so much
smaller than 0obin, 0obin got the short end of the stick. he was the
one who had to drag the sled up the hill for the two girls. 7he e9ort
was worth it, though. 7hey always had a great time together.
6 0ather than decide by #0ock, /aper, cissors,$ our soccer team liked
to draw sticks. 7he person who got the short end of the stick had to be
the referee.
Idioms & 3
rd
6 weeks, Week 1
Monday $. leave in the dust %. hands don
Tuesday &. second #ddle
'ednesday (. hats of
Thursday ). in the bag
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - -
Monday
Idiom . leave in the dust
Meaning . move quickly ahead of someone or something8 to be
much better than someone or something else
How It Is Used . ;rooke was excited about her present. #>ook at the
graphics
and action. 7his new +llegro NJJJ lea#es my last video game in the
dust?$ she exclaimed.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
lea#e in the dust is used as an idiom.
2 Victor couldn't wait to get to the go-cart track. :e intended to lea#e
e#eryone in the dust. Cot even his dad would be able to catch up to
him?
6 #Bh, ;obby, that nickel is so dirty,$ his mom scolded. #/lease don't
pick it up. =ust lea#e it in the dust. I'll give you a shiny new one when
we get home,$ she o9ered.
Idiom . hands don
Meaning . without diAculty8 easily8 certainly %usually to win
something&
How It Is Used . 7he students were about to elect their new class
president.
:ilary had the best posters, made the best speech, and everyone liked
her. 5e were all sure she would win hands down.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
hands down is used as an idiom.
2 +s the teacher read from the social studies textbook, she asked
students to keep their hands down until after she was done. #I'll take
questions after I'm !nished reading,$ she said.
6 #5hy did you challenge Vera to a tennis match*$ )ail asked herself.
#he has been taking lessons for two years and has won three
trophies. he is going to beat you hands down.$
Tuesday
Idiom . second #ddle
Meaning . someone who is not as good or who is not
considered as important as someone else
How It Is Used . David was tired of playing second "ddle to 1harles,
who always seemed to get better days o9 and more pay. 4inally, David
had the courage to quit his 3ob and start his own business.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
second "ddle is used as an idiom.
2 7he square dance was getting people of all ages to get up and move.
5hen the group became too large, someone picked up a second "ddle
so another square could form in another area of the barn.
6 7he co-stars of the movie shared top billing, but tensions started
running high when one star felt he was playing second "ddle to his
younger co-star.
'ednesday
Idiom . hats of
Meaning . what a person says to give credit to someone, or
show admiration or approval
How It Is Used . ;ryce thanked his mom for the great surprise
birthday party.
#Hats of to your friend ,evin,$ his mom explained. #It was all his idea.
:e planned it and invited all your friends.$
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
hats of is used as an idiom.
2 7he )ordon family was looking forward to en3oying a movie together.
7hey had to get up and change their seats when a group of teenagers
sat down in front of them. Even when asked to do so, they refused to
stop talking or even take their hats of. 7he )ordon's two children
couldn't see the screen.
6 #7his class picnic was a great idea,$ (andell told his teacher. #Hats
of to the class for thinking of it,$ his teacher responded. #7his will
de!nitely be something I do with my class each year.$
Thursday
Idiom . in the bag
Meaning . a sure thing8 something that will certainly happen
How It Is Used . #5e're at the bottom of the sixth inning,$ the sports
announcer said. #7he 7ornados have 3ust scored their tenth run of the
game. 7he Daisies have 3ust one run on the board. 7he game's not
over, folks, but it seems the 7ornados have this one in the bag.$
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which in
the bag is used as an idiom.
2 +my and Emily cheered for their school at the regional geography
competition. #Bur team is by far the best,$ Emily said con!dently. #5e
have this win in the bag.$
6 #(om? I can't !nd my blue hair band with the white dots,$ =enny
called. #I saw it yesterday,$ =enny's mom said. #>ook in the bag by the
front
Idioms & 3
rd
6 weeks, Week2
Monday $. under the eather %. raining cats and
dogs
Tuesday &. soaked to the bone
'ednesday (. usual sunny self
Thursday ). like ater of a ducks back
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - -
Monday
Idiom . under the eather
Meaning . sick8 ill8 not feeling well
How It Is Used . 4lu9y was under the weather. he usually wagged
her tail and teased her owners to play. 7oday she mostly slept and
whined. 4lu9y's owner !nally called the veterinarian to schedule an
appointment.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
under the weather is used as an idiom.
2 Bur family was supposed to go on a picnic on unday. ;ut our mom
woke up feeling under the weather, so we postponed our picnic for
another day.
6 Bur teacher kept many kinds of maps in the classroom. Under the
weather map, she kept world maps, a map of the solar system, and
even a map of our school?
Idiom . raining cats and dogs
Meaning . pour down rain8 rain hard
How It Is Used . #ince it is raining cats and dogs,
let's go to the movies today,$ (arsha's mom suggested.
(arsha grabbed the phone and called a friend to 3oin them.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in
which raining cats and dogs is used as an idiom.
2 7he cartoon show was a favorite of the two girls. 7hey
laughed out loud when the airplane rained cats and dogs
wearing parachutes down upon the pet shop. 7his was how
the shop received its shipments of new animals?
6 0yan asked his mom if he could go outside to play, but his
mom wouldn't let him. #:aven't you looked outside*$ she
asked. #It's raining cats and dogs?$
Tuesday
Idiom . soaked to the bone
Meaning . very wet8 so wet as to seem never to
dry
How It Is Used . =ohn was kind to mow the 4rost's yard
while they were away on vacation. ;ut before even half the
yard was done, =ohn found himself surprised by the 4rost's
sprinkler system, and he got soaked to the bone.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in
which soaked to the bone is used as an idiom.
2 5hile walking downtown, a !re hydrant burst, showering
the entire corner of 4irst and 4ifth treets. 5e wound up
soaked to the bone by the gushing water.
6 tep two of the recipe readO #/lace your chicken in a bowl
with buttermilk, and soak to the bone of the chicken, at least
three hours, or overnight.$
'ednesday
Idiom . usual sunny self
Meaning . a person who is happy or smiles a lot8 a
person who makes other people happy
How It Is Used . Viewers tuned in every day to watch their
local newscaster deliver the news. Cot only did they learn
what was happening in their community, but the newscaster
was always her usual sunny self. 7hose who watched her left
their homes in a good mood, ready for the day.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in
which usual sunny self is used as an idiom.
2 0adio broadcastO #It's another hot day out there, with the
sun its usual sunny self, beaming down on our town. ;e sure
to wear plenty of sunscreen today, folks, and keep the water
coming.$
6 (ichelle was nervous before she gave her speech to the
students at 0ockville Elementary chool. ;ut as she shared
her ideas about school improvements, she was her usual
sunny self. :er positive outlook gave her a quiet con!dence
that her classmates liked.
Thursday
Idiom . like ater of a ducks back
Meaning . when something has no e9ect on a
person8 when something does not bother
someone
How It Is Used . 7he ;ush family's dog, 1obb, was great
with little children. ;aby Emma would tug and pull on his fur,
tail, and ears, but 1obb never bit, nipped, or even growled.
7he family liked that 1obb could let the annoyance roll o9 him
like water of a ducks back.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in
which like water of a ducks back is used as an idiom.
2 + marine biologist visited our classroom to show the e9ects
of oil spills on birds that live in water. #+s you can see, the oil
sticks to the feathers, and doesn't allow the water to roll of
the ducks back.$
6 )ood comedians never let the audience bother them. 7hey
have a way of letting comments and 3eers roll o9 them like
water of a ducks back. ometimes they might even be quick-
witted enough to use the 3eers as part of the comedy routine.
Idioms & 3
rd
6 weeks, Week 3
Monday $. in a fog %. misty"eyed
Tuesday &. a ,ood of tears
'ednesday (. burning up *ith fever+
Thursday ). in hot ater
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - -
Monday
Idiom . in a fog
Meaning . unknowing8 unaware8 confused8 sad or depressed
How It Is Used . 0aul had always wanted to visit the big city. :e had
spent all
IP years of his life in a small town where everyone knew one another.
5hen he !rst stepped o9 the bus in Dallas, there were so many lights,
noises, and people, it seemed as if his head were in a fog.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which in
a fog is used as an idiom.
2 ;eth and her dog had been together since ;eth was born. +fter IK
years, ;oots had died. ;eth walked around in a fog for over a week,
feeling sad and empty without her best friend.
6 7he young children on the bus had learned a great trick. 7hey
breathed on the bus window, then wrote their letters in a fog that
condensed on the window.
Idiom . misty"eyed
Meaning . having tears in a person's eyes, but not shedding
tears8 having strong emotions %from an event that may
make a person cry&
How It Is Used . Itty ;itty Daycare had practiced for many weeks for
their preschool graduation ceremony. +ll the moms and dads looked
on, many of them misty!eyed, knowing their young children would soon
be in kindergarten.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
misty!eyed is used as an idiom.
2 7he !nal scene in the movie was quite sad. (ost, if not all, of the
moviegoers left the theater misty!eyed.
6 +t the carnival, a clown came up and surprised us by spraying us
with a water gun, leaving me misty!eyed and in need of a towel.
Tuesday
Idiom . a ,ood of tears
Meaning . crying endlessly8 crying for a long time
How It Is Used . 7he teenager was arrested for stealing a car. +fter
hours of questioning, in a (ood of tears, he confessed to the crime.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which a
(ood of tears is used as an idiom.
2 7he /earson's new house was supposed to be done at the end of the
month. (rs. /earson couldn't wait to see it. 5hen she walked in and
saw that the house was still months away from completion, she ran out
in a (ood of tears.
6 #5hat are you doing with the salt and the water*$ (om asked. #5e
are making salt water for our Indian play set,$ I explained. #5e want a
(ood of tears to come down over the village during a ceremonial
dance.$
'ednesday
Idiom . burning up *ith fever+
Meaning . having a high fever8 very hot from a high fever
How It Is Used . 7he school nurse called with concern in her voice.
#"our daughter, Emily, is in our clinic,$ she explained. #he is burning
u$ with a IJN.QR fever.$ Emily's mom promised to be right there.
;efore she left the house, she called Emily's doctor for an
appointment.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
burning u$ is used as an idiom.
2 5e watched from down the road as the abandoned house was
burning u$. 7he !re department was already there, trying to control
the Dames.
6 (y baby sister was crying most of the night. 5e 3ust thought she
was being fussy. ;ut when (om checked on her, she found that she
was burning u$ with fever.
Thursday
Idiom . in hot ater
Meaning . in trouble8 in a situation that may bring punishment
How It Is Used . ;rian was so busy with sports that his grades were
falling. If he didn't start working harder in school, he was going to be in
hot water with his parents.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which in
hot water
is used as an idiom.
2 5hen he got home from a hard day at work, the gardener liked to
shower in hot water to remove all the dirt and grime.
6 7he grocery store cashier stole a few dollars from her register each
night before closing, but she didn't think anyone would notice. Bne
night, when she went into the oAce to turn in her drawer, she was
surprised to see a police oAcer. he reali<ed then that she was in hot
water with the law.
Idioms & !th 6 weeks, Week 1
Monday $. ake up on the rong side of the bed
%. rub someone the rong ay
Tuesday &. on cloud nine
'ednesday (. don in the dumps
Thursday ). in the hot seat
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - -
Monday
Idiom . ake up on the rong side of the
bed
Meaning . to feel grumpy or annoyed
How It Is Used . In class, (adelyn's teacher asked if she would like to
take down the chairs around the room, a chore she usually en3oyed in
the morning. #Cot today,$ (adelyn mumbled as she slumped in her
seat. ince (adelyn didn't seem like her usual, perky self, her teacher
!gured she must have woken u$ on the wrong side of the bed.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
wake u$ on the wrong side of the bed is used as an idiom.
2 )randma always placed her slippers at her bedside at night so they
would be there when she woke up in the morning. Bne morning she
came to breakfast without them. #5here are your slippers, )randma*$
I asked. he explained that they weren't handy since she had woken
u$ on the wrong side of the bed.
6 7he director of the play was excited about opening night. (uch to his
surprise, the lead actor seemed to be in a bad mood during rehearsals.
Bne of the stage helpers mentioned that he must have woken u$ on
the wrong side of the bed.
Idiom . rub someone the rong ay
Meaning . bother8 annoy8 dislike
How It Is Used . 7he neighbor's dog sometimes runs around the
neighborhood without a leash. (y mom usually makes me come inside
because she says that something about the dog rubs her the wrong
way.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
rub someone the wrong way is used as an idiom.
2 (y teacher keeps small rodents and !sh as class pets. 5hen we
asked if we could also keep a li<ard or snake, she shivered a polite no,
explaining that those kinds of creatures rub her the wrong way.
6 I o9ered to help my brother wax his new car, but he said he would
do it himself. :e said that last time I rubbed it the wrong way.
Tuesday
Idiom . on cloud nine
Meaning . elated8 excited8 pleased8 happy
How It Is Used . ;ianca knew that getting #!rst chair$ in the school
band was
going to be tough because everyone was so good at playing the Dute.
he was on cloud nine when her band director announced that she
would hold that seat for the concert?
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which on
cloud nine is used as an idiom.
2 7he kindergartners were learning their numbers. 7heir teacher had
little numbered cutouts on the Door for practice. 5hen lining up to go
to lunch, she told (ona, #)o stand on cloud nine.$
6 4red en3oyed nothing more than studying rocks and gems. 5hen his
class went on a trip to the science museum, he was on cloud nine
when they reached the gems and minerals room.
'ednesday
Idiom . don in the dumps
Meaning . depressed8 sad
How It Is Used . (y friend ;en was down in the dum$s after failing
our math test.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
down in the dum$s is used as an idiom.
2 I !gured that my sister would be happy when her team won the
championships. Instead, she was down in the dum$s because she had
to sit on the bench for most of the game.
6 (y uncle works as a sanitation worker, collecting garbage. Bnce, a
woman asked him to go down in the dum$s to !nd a diamond ring she
accidentally threw away?
Thursday
Idiom . in the hot seat
Meaning . in a situation where one has to perform his or her
best, or do well
How It Is Used . 7he math competition was a close match. Bur team
was tied with the other team. 7his last question would decide the
contest. 7he problem was given to my friend, 1arl. :e was really in the
hot seat?
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which in
the hot seat is used as an idiom.
2 5hen my older sister came in late for the third night in a row, Dad
was waiting for her. he was really in the hot seat? If she didn't have a
good excuse, she could look forward to being grounded for a long time.
6 7he seat warmers in my mom's new car are great. 7here's nothing
as nice as getting into the car on a free<ing winter morning and sitting
in the hot seat.
Idioms & !th 6 weeks, Week 2
Monday $. ith a heavy heart %. heart stood still
Tuesday &. heart of gold
'ednesday (. from the heart
Thursday ). heart set on
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - -
Monday
Idiom . ith a heavy heart
Meaning . sad8 depressed
How It Is Used . usan and her family had a small ceremony when her
hamster, 1uddles, died. With a hea#y heart, she put him in a shoebox,
which her dad buried in the backyard.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in
which with a hea#y heart is used as an idiom.
2 amantha beamed when she gave her mom a Valentine's Day card
she had made herself. 7he card was full of sequins, and in the middle
was a hea#y heart made of gem stones.
6 (iles had been looking forward to going to the theme park for
weeks. With a hea#y heart, his mom explained, #I'm afraid we 3ust
can't go today. 7he thunderstorms will close down all the rides.$
Idiom . heart stood still
Meaning . scared8 shocked
How It Is Used . >isa couldn't wait to ride 7he ;east, the new roller
coaster at the amusement park. :er heart stood still when the cars
stopped at the top of the !rst hill, suspending the riders for a few
moments
before dropping them IPJ feet at SK miles per hour?
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
heart stood still is used as an idiom.
2 andy tried not to be grossed out by the frog she had to dissect.
(uch to her surprise, she was fascinated to see where its heart stood
still along with all its other organs.
6 Erin was worried when she heard that the principal was going to
speak to her class. he thought they had done something wrong? :er
heart stood still when (rs. Eckert walked in, but she was relieved to
hear the announcement that her class had won a pi<<a party for best
attendance.
Tuesday
Idiom . heart of gold
Meaning . kind8 nice8 giving8 thoughtful
How It Is Used . 0oger and 7oby laugh to think that they were once
afraid of their neighbor, (r. chmidt. :e seemed mean when they !rst
met him, but they have learned that he has a heart of gold.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
heart of gold is used as an idiom.
2 During the holidays, :annah and her mom worked as volunteers to
collect food for families in need. 7hey were happy to see how many
people made donations. #7here are so many people in our community
who have a heart of gold,$ :annah's mom said.
6 1olleen en3oyed collecting charms for her bracelet. Bne day while
shopping, she simply could not take her eyes o9 the charm with two
silver hands holding a heart of gold.
'ednesday
Idiom . from the heart
Meaning . with meaning8 sincere8 thoughtful
How It Is Used . 1hristy's dad really had no use for the handkerchief
with painted hearts and Dowers on it. till, he kept it safely tucked
away in his sock drawer for PJ years because he knew the gift from his
niece was from the heart.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
from the
heart is used as an idiom.
2 ,aren was nervous about the doctor taking T-rays to look at her
heart. #7his will let us see the blood Dow to and from the heart. If
something is wrong, we'll see it right away.$
6 Bur music teacher was getting her chorus ready for a big concert.
he played music with a lot of emotion to help the students learn how
to sing with feeling. Bnce they heard the music, they were ready to
sing from the heart.
Thursday
Idiom . heart set on
Meaning . expect8 determined to do something or get
something
How It Is Used . ;lake stomped into his room and slammed his door.
#:e is 3ust upset because he had his heart set on having his birthday
party at the park,$ his mom explained to his dad. #ince it's raining,
we'll have to do something else.$
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
heart set on
is used as an idiom.
2 7ina had her heart set on getting a new red bike for her birthday. he
was somewhat disappointed when she walked outside and saw a shiny
scooter with a big bow on it.
6 7he two girls watched in fascination as the doctor on the 7V show
carefully lifted the patient's new heart set on the tray, and put it into
its new owner. Bnly time would tell if the operation was successful.
Idioms & !th 6 weeks, Week 3
Monday $. heart in the right place %. didnt have the
heart
Tuesday &. heartbroken
'ednesday (. heart and soul
Thursday ). place in ones heart
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - -
Monday
Idiom . heart in the right place
Meaning . kind and considerate, but may not show it8 actions
were kind, but the outcome didn't work out
How It Is Used . 7he chocolate chip cookies +ngelo made for the
class looked great. 5hen the class bit into them, they found them hard
and slightly burnt. (ost of the students didn't !nish theirs, but his
teacher, (rs. haw, ate hers all up. 7hey may not have tasted quite
right, but she knew that +ngelo had his heart in the right $lace when
he made them.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
heart in
the right $lace is used as an idiom.
2 (rs. (ayes found )eraldine's need to sharpen every pencil in her
class pencil box a little aggravating, but she allowed her to do it since
her heart was in the right $lace. +ll )eraldine really wanted was to
know that if someone needed a pencil, it would be ready to use.
6 7he sci-! movie I watched last night had a scene in which humans
captured and studied aliens' bodies. Doctors could not !nd the lungs in
the bodies, but their hearts were in the right $lace.
Idiom . didnt have the heart
Meaning . couldn't do something because a person didn't want
to hurt someone's feelings
How It Is Used . =ackie really wanted to know what her friend ,im
thought of
the story she wrote. ,im didnt ha#e the heart to tell her it was really
boring.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
didnt ha#e
the heart is used as an idiom.

2 5hen ;en brought home a baby gerbil from his friend's house, his
mom didnt ha#e the heart to tell him he couldn't keep it. 7hey spent
the afternoon getting a gerbil cage, bedding, food, and care books so
that ;en's new pet would be well cared for.
6 (aggie and >i< were shopping for purses at the mall. >i< liked the
one with the heart clasp, but (aggie preferred the one that didnt ha#e
the heart on it.
Tuesday
Idiom . heartbroken
Meaning . sad8 grieving8 disappointed
How It Is Used . =oann and 7erry had been best friends for three
years. 7hey
were both heartbroken to learn that 7erry's family was moving to
another state, and that they would only be able to see each other once
or twice a year.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
heartbroken is used as an idiom.

2 /aul's mom wore a favorite silver heart on a chain around her neck
every day. >ast week she had her heart broken when my little brother
pulled on it.
6 =e9ery had spent months building a model of the pace huttle. :e
was heartbroken to !nd that his cat, Dunkin, had knocked it down and
shattered the main frame.
'ednesday
Idiom . heart and soul
Meaning . with all your energy8 with all your thought8
completely8 a person who is the center of a group
How It Is Used . (arsha practiced every day for weeks for her piano
recital. +fter her performance, many people told her parents that it
sounded like she put her heart and soul into each piece.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
heart and
soul is used as an idiom.

2 +t the church service, the minister spoke about generosity, and how
it is good for the heart and soul.
6 7he students in the debate club at )entry (iddle chool missed their
teacher terribly after he retired. :e was the heart and soul of the club.
7hey weren't sure how they would perform without his support and
guidance.
Thursday
Idiom . place in ones heart
Meaning . have special meaning8 be important to someone
How It Is Used . 5ith IJ foster children to look after, (rs. 1ain wasn't
sure if
she had a $lace in her heart for even one more child. ;ut when she
looked into 1arl's lost and lonely eyes, she knew she would watch over
him 3ust as much as the others in her care.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
$lace in ones heart is used as an idiom.

2 7he horses at the stables all looked strong and healthy, and they
were beautiful. ;ut there was one, >ucky, that the owner had rescued
from a burning barn as a colt. >ucky held a special $lace in his heart.
6 >earning about the human body was interesting to /aul. #"ou have a
$lace in your heart for valves, veins, and arteries,$ the textbook read.
+ detailed illustration labeled the parts of the heart.
Idioms & #th 6 weeks, Week 1
Monday $. piece of cake %. hit the hay
Tuesday &. in the drivers seat
'ednesday (. blo a fuse
Thursday ). the short end of the stick
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - -
Monday
Idiom . piece of cake
Meaning . easy to do8 something that requires no e9ort
How It Is Used . =acob was known for his steady hand and keen eye.
:e and
his friends played a game where they had to pull out an ob3ect from
the game board without setting o9 the alarm. 5hen =acob learned the
rules, he smiled and thought, #7his will be a $iece of cake.$
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
$iece of cake is used as an idiom.
2 Bnce 0honda had mastered all the multiplication facts, her teacher
told the class they had a test the next day. #7his should be a $iece of
cake,$ 0honda thought.
6 7he party at the roller rink was going well. +fter skating, everyone
had some pi<<a and then had a $iece of cake.
Idiom . hit the hay
Meaning . go to bed8 go to sleep
How It Is Used . (y friends and I decided our regular sleepover would
be better if we camped in the backyard. It was almost midnight when
my mom popped her head inside the tent. #It's time to hit the hay,
boys,$ she said.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which hit
the hay is used as an idiom.
2 I en3oyed spending time on my cousin's farm, but it was hard work.
4irst we woke up really early, at sunrise. 7hen we took care of the
animals. Cext we hit the hay, cleaning and re!lling the horse stalls with
fresh hay. 4inally, it was time for lunch.
6 Bur day on the water was a lot of fun, but all that time in the sun
was tiring. =ust a couple of hours after dinner, my dad mumbled, #I'm
ready to hit the hay.$
Tuesday
Idiom . in the drivers seat
Meaning . in control of something8 having an advantage
How It Is Used . #:alibut's does a really good business,$ my friend
noted. #7hey carry supplies for unusual reptiles and amphibians. 7hey
also carry saltwater !sh and exotic birds. ;eing the only pet shop in
town to have these odd animals really puts them in the dri#ers seat.$
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which in
the dri#ers seat is used as an idiom.
2 (y dad was looking all over for his car keys. I o9ered to help and
started looking all over the house. It wasn't until I went out to the car
that I looked through the window and saw them in the dri#ers seat.
6 Eddie has a batting cage in his backyard. 5hen our team wants to
practice, Eddie gets to decide the time. Bwning the batting cage really
puts him in the dri#ers seat.
'ednesday
Idiom . blow a fuse
Meaning . become suddenly angry8 get mad
How It Is Used . (om had let me use her credit card to buy new
school clothes. he was always careful with her money. he gave me a
limit and
told me to not go over it. he is going to blow a fuse when she !nds
out how much I spent.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in
which blow a fuse is used as an idiom.
2 0ichard blew a fuse when he found out his little sister had been in
his room. #7his sign clearly says DB CB7 EC7E0?$ he shouted at her.
#0ichard, leave her alone,$ (om said. #"ou know your baby sister can't
read.$
6 (y friends and I like to !x up our hair when we sleep over. >ast time,
we had so many hair dryers and curling irons plugged in, Dad was
worried we'd blow a fuse.
Thursday
Idiom - the short end of the stick
Meaning . to su9er the bad e9ects of a situation8 to not give
credit to someone
How It Is Used . +unt =ill was never very good at cutting a cake into
even pieces. 7he last person served got the short end of the stick. 7hat
piece was always the smallest and had the least amount of frosting.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in
which the short
end of the stick is used as an idiom.
2 0obin and ,athy like to go sledding. ince ,athy was so much
smaller than 0obin, 0obin got the short end of the stick. he was the
one who had to drag the sled up the hill for the two girls. 7he e9ort
was worth it, though. 7hey always had a great time together.
6 0ather than decide by #0ock, /aper, cissors,$ our soccer team liked
to draw sticks. 7he person who got the short end of the stick had to be
the referee.
Idioms & #th 6 weeks, Week 2
Monday $. leave in the dust %. hands don
Tuesday &. second #ddle
'ednesday (. hats of
Thursday ). in the bag
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - -
Monday
Idiom ) . leave in the dust
Meaning . move quickly ahead of someone or something8 to
be much better than someone or something else
How It Is Used . ;rooke was excited about her present. #>ook at the
graphics
and action. 7his new +llegro NJJJ lea#es my last video game in the
dust?$ she exclaimed.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
lea#e in the
dust is used as an idiom.
2 Victor couldn't wait to get to the go-cart track. :e intended to lea#e
e#eryone in the dust. Cot even his dad would be able to catch up to
him?
6 #Bh, ;obby, that nickel is so dirty,$ his mom scolded. #/lease don't
pick it up. =ust lea#e it in the dust. I'll give you a shiny new one when
we get home,$ she o9ered.
Idiom . hands don
Meaning . without diAculty8 easily8 certainly %usually to win
something&
How It Is Used . 7he students were about to elect their new class
president.
:ilary had the best posters, made the best speech, and everyone liked
her. 5e were all sure she would win hands down.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
hands down is used as an idiom.
2 +s the teacher read from the social studies textbook, she asked
students to keep their hands down until after she was done. #I'll take
questions after I'm !nished reading,$ she said.
6 #5hy did you challenge Vera to a tennis match*$ )ail asked herself.
#he has been taking lessons for two years and has won three
trophies. he is going to beat you hands down.$
Tuesday
Idiom . second #ddle
Meaning . someone who is not as good or who is not
considered as important as someone else
How It Is Used . David was tired of playing second "ddle to 1harles,
who always seemed to get better days o9 and more pay. 4inally, David
had
the courage to quit his 3ob and start his own business.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
second "ddle is used as an idiom.
2 7he square dance was getting people of all ages to get up and move.
5hen the group became too large, someone picked up a second "ddle
so another square could form in another area of the barn.
6 7he co-stars of the movie shared top billing, but tensions started
running high when one star felt he was playing second "ddle to his
younger co-star.
'ednesday
Idiom . hats of
Meaning . what a person says to give credit to someone, or
show admiration or approval
How It Is Used . ;ryce thanked his mom for the great surprise
birthday party.
#Hats of to your friend ,evin,$ his mom explained. #It was all his idea.
:e planned it and invited all your friends.$
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in
which hats of is
used as an idiom.
2 7he )ordon family was looking forward to en3oying a movie together.
7hey had to get up and change their seats when a group of teenagers
sat down in front of them. Even when asked to do so, they refused to
stop talking or even take their hats of. 7he )ordon's two children
couldn't see the screen.
6 #7his class picnic was a great idea,$ (andell told his teacher. #Hats
of to the class for thinking of it,$ his teacher responded. #7his will
de!nitely be something I do with my class each year.$
Thursday
Idiom . in the bag
Meaning . a sure thing8 something that will certainly happen
How It Is Used . #5e're at the bottom of the sixth inning,$ the sports
announcer said. #7he 7ornados have 3ust scored their tenth run of the
bgame. 7he Daisies have 3ust one run on the board. 7he game's not
over, folks, but it seems the 7ornados have this one in the bag.$
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which in
the bag is used as an idiom.
2 +my and Emily cheered for their school at the regional geography
competition. #Bur team is by far the best,$ Emily said con!dently. #5e
have this win in the bag.$
6 #(om? I can't !nd my blue hair band with the white dots,$ =enny
called. #I saw it yesterday,$ =enny's mom said. #>ook in the bag by the
front door.$
Idioms & #th 6 weeks, Week 3
Monday $. as diferent as night and day %. like a bump on
a log
Tuesday &. as hungry as a bear
'ednesday (. eats like a horse
Thursday ). as strong as an o.
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - -
Monday
*imile . as diferent as night and day
Meaning . being opposites8 not alike
How It Is Used . Bur dog had two puppies that looked identical. ;oth
were
black with a white patch. ;ut they were as diferent as night and day.
Bne was outgoing and loved to be held by people and the other was
very shy and scared around people.
Recogni+ing *imiles . 0ememberO + simile is a comparison using like
or as.
0ead the selection. +nswer the questions below.
(ona thought all campgrounds were pretty much the same. he
discovered last summer that they can be as diferent as night and day.
+t her family's !rst stop, they camped in a campground that had lush
trees, a refreshing lake, and clean bathrooms. 7he next night they
found themselves camping in the hot sun with no relief from the heat,
and there was nothing more than a water pump and an outhouse to
use to clean up.
2Is something being compared to something else* U yes U no
6Is the word like or as used to compare* U yes U no
V+re the words diferent as night and day part of a simile in this selection* Uyes
Uno
*imile . like a bump on a log
Meaning . unmoving8 not active8 sits around a lot or doesn't
get involved in things
How It Is Used . (y brother hasn't wanted to do anything or go
anywhere this
summer. :e 3ust sits around like a bum$ on a log watching 7V or
playing video games.
Recogni+ing *imiles . 0ememberO + simile is a comparison using like
or as.
0ead the selection. +nswer the questions below.
Bur soccer coach can really get us moving? 4irst we do warm-ups to
loosen our muscles and get our blood pumping. 7hen we move onto
drills to practice dribbling, passing, and shooting. 4or a full WJ minutes,
we are moving, moving, moving. occer is de!nitely not a game for
people who prefer to act like a bum$ on a log.
2 Is something being compared to something else* U yes U no
6 Is the word like or as used to compare* U yes U no
V +re the words like a bum$ on a log part of a simile in this selection* UyesUno
Tuesday
*imile . as hungry as a bear
Meaning . very hungry8 someone who eats a lot of food or
eats often
How It Is Used . (om commented on how fast my baby brother was
growing.
he told her friend, #(y other two babies ate during regular meal
times, and never ate more than six ounces at one feeding. 7his one is
as hungry as a bear. :e eats every two hours, and is already up to
eight-ounce bottles.$
Recogni+ing *imiles . 0ememberO + simile is a comparison using like
or as.
0ead the selection. +nswer the questions below.
Bn a recent trip to a state park, the park ranger gave a talk about the
wildlife in the area. /eople wondered how to protect their food while
camping. #"ou have to worry about raccoons, because they are sneaky,
but a raccoon wouldn't usually be as hungry as a bear might be.$
2 Is something being compared to something else* U yes U no
6 Is the word like or as used to compare* U yes U no
V +re the words as hungry as a bear part of a simile in this selection* U yes U no
'ednesday
*imile . eats like a horse
Meaning . eats a lot of food8 is constantly eating
How It Is Used . (y mom likes my friend 0obby. ;ut one thing about
him bothers her. 5henever he comes over, he heads right for the
refrigerator. #0obby is a nice boy,$ she said, #but he eats like a horse.$
Recogni+ing *imiles . 0ememberO + simile is a comparison using like
or as.
0ead the selection. +nswer the questions below.
+fter a fun day at the beach, we were all ready for a hamburger and
chips. (y +unt arah always brought a huge watermelon to share with
the family. (y older brother ran to the picnic table. #)ood thing there's
lots of food,$ he said. #I'm so hungry, I could eat a horse.$
2 Is something being compared to something else* U yes U no
6 Is the word like or as used to compare* U yes U no
V +re the words eats like a horse part of a simile in this selection* U
yes U no
Thursday
*imile . as strong as an o.
Meaning . very strong8 with much force and strength
How It Is Used . 5e watched as the movers picked up our heaviest
furniture and carefully loaded it onto the moving vans. 7hat man is as
strong as an o,-$ my dad commented.
Recogni+ing *imiles . 0ememberO + simile is a comparison using like
or as.
0ead the selection. +nswer the questions below.
7he museum had a special exhibit on ancient Egyptians. 7he audio tour
explained how they moved heavy loads to build the pyramids. #Even
with the equipment and help, they must have been as strong as an o,
to build those massive structures,$ my friend whispered to me.
2 Is something being compared to something else* U yes U no
6 Is the word like or as used to compare* U yes U no
V +re the words as strong as an o, part of a simile in this selection*
UyesUno
Idioms & 6th 6 weeks, Week 1
Monday $. as seet as honey %. eat like a bird
Tuesday &. feel/look like a million bucks
'ednesday (. like the icing on the cake
Thursday ). as stubborn as a mule
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - -
Monday
*imile . as seet as honey
Meaning . very kind and thoughtful8 extremely nice and caring
How It Is Used . (y friend 0achel and I were hoping we would get
(rs. 1ash
as our !fth grade teacher. Everyone knew she was the nicest teacher
at our school. 5hen school started, we were excited to see both our
names on the list outside her door. 5hen I told my mom when I got
home, she said, #(rs. 1ash is as sweet as honey. "ou girls are going to
have a great !fth grade year.$
Recogni+ing *imiles . 0ememberO + simile is a comparison using like
or as.
0ead the selection. +nswer the questions below.
In making the cake, we found that we didn't have any honey to spread
on top. 5e looked in the cupboard for something as sweet as honey to
use instead.
2 Is something being compared to something else* U yes U no
6 Is the word like or as used to compare* U yes U no
V +re the words as sweet as honey part of a simile in this selection*
Uyes Uno
*imile . eat like a bird
Meaning . eat very little8 eat slightly
How It Is Used . (y older sister gave us good advice before we rode
the big
rollercoaster. #If I were you, I would eat like a bird before going on that
ride,$ she suggested. #+ full stomach and rolling through loops and
curves at SJ miles per hour 3ust don't mix.$
Recogni+ing *imiles . 0ememberO + simile is a comparison using like
or as.
0ead the selection. +nswer the questions below.
Every morning, we would let our cat in from his night on the prowl. :e
was quite the hunter, so we were never sure what little surprise he
would leave for us on our doorstep. ometimes he would eat a bird.
+nother time, he left us a li<ard. Bnce he even brought home a mole.
2 Is something being compared to something else* U yes U no
6 Is the word like or as used to compare* U yes U no
V +re the words eat like a bird part of a simile in this selection* U yes
U no
Tuesday
*imile . feel/look like a million bucks
Meaning . feel great8 feel like a person can do anything
How It Is Used . =enna looked nice every day for school. Bn picture
day, she
took great care with every detail of her clothes and hair. 5hen she
walked into the classroom in her red dress, (arcie told her, #=enna, you
look like a million bucks today?$
Recogni+ing *imiles . 0ememberO + simile is a comparison using like
or as.
0ead the selection. +nswer the questions below.
,ylie was thrilled to learn that she had won a makeover at the area's
best salon. :owever, she was nervous about what the stylist was going
to do. #Don't you worry,$ he assured ,ylie. #"ou will walk out of here in
two hours looking like a million bucks.$
2 Is something being compared to something else* U yes U no
6 Is the word like or as used to compare* U yes U no
V +re the words feeling like a million bucks part of a simile above*
Uyes U no
'ednesday
*imile . like the icing on the cake
Meaning . the extra thing that makes something else extra
special8 something that makes something good even
better
How It Is Used . 4rank was looking forward to the camping trip with
his ;oy cout troop. 5hen he got there, he saw another troop camping
in the same area. 7hen he reali<ed his best friend from the other side
of town was in that troop. 5hen the two boys met up, 4rank thought,
#7his is like the icing on the cake, having my best friend along on my
camping trip?$
Recogni+ing *imiles . 0ememberO + simile is a comparison using like
or as.
0ead the selection. +nswer the questions below.
+t the birthday party, we all waited for the cake to be cut. +llison ate
the cake but didn't like the icing on the cake.
2 Is something being compared to something else* U yes U no
6 Is the word like or as used to compare* U yes U no
V +re the words like the icing on the cake part of a simile above* U
yes U no
Thursday
*imile . as stubborn as a mule
Meaning . a person who will not change his or her mind or
opinion, even if he or she is wrong
How It Is Used . (om knew Dad didn't like to Dy. 5e wanted to go to
:awaii for our vacation, but Dad wouldn't change his mind. (om said
he was as stubborn as a mule.
Recogni+ing *imiles . 0ememberO + simile is a comparison using like
or as.
0ead the selection. +nswer the questions below.
During my summer 3ob on a farm, I got to know the animals pretty well.
Bne day my little sister visited me. I pointed out the pigs and chickens,
but she was more interested in the corral with the horses. #=ust ignore
that stubborn mule,$ I told her. #:e thinks he is a horse.$
2 Is something being compared to something else* U yes U no
6 Is the word like or as used to compare* U yes U no
V +re the words as stubborn as a mule part of a simile above* U yes
U no
Idioms & 6th 6 weeks, Week 2
Monday $. run into a brick all %. out on a limb
Tuesday &. ,ip ones lid
'ednesday (. for the birds
Thursday ). bent out of shape
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - -
Monday
Idiom . run into a brick all
Meaning . when something happens to stop a person from
doing something or getting somewhere important
How It Is Used . >ittle sisters can be so rude? Every time I want to tell
)randpa
an important story, she interrupts me. (y stories always seem
to run into a brick wall.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
run into a
brick wall is used as an idiom.
2 =ason's new skateboard was fast? :e told his mom he would be down
the street showing o9 to his friends. he warned him to be careful not
to hit a car or run into a brick wall.
6 +s the museum workers attempted to piece together a new dinosaur
fossil, they discovered they were missing a few essential bones. @nless
the pieces were found, the pro3ect would run into a brick wall.
Idiom . go out on a limb
Meaning . when a person guesses, knowing that he or she will
probably be wrong8 to put oneself in a risky
position
in order to help another person
How It Is Used . (ath used to be easy, but this new kind of problem
confused a lot of students. 5hen the teacher called for the answers to
the homework, only a few students were willing to go out on a limb and
give their solutions.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which go
out on a
limb is used as an idiom.
2 Everyone watched in delight as the new monkeys at the <oo
entertained their guests by going out on a limb and swinging from tree
to tree.
6 #:ow many stars are in the sky*$ Dana asked =anet. Cot knowing the
!rst thing about the universe, =anet went out on a limb and guessed, #+
million trillion.$
Tuesday
Idiom . ,ip ones lid
Meaning . get angry or upset8 go mad or cra<y
How It Is Used . +fter a bad pitch at the baseball game hit the batter,
a !ght
broke out among all of the players. #7he guys have (i$$ed their lids?$
my dad yelled.
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which (i$
ones lid
is used as an idiom.
2 1ooking class was always fun. Bne student tried to (i$ the lid to his
pot, but the lid
landed wrong. Bnce he Dipped it, he was ready to cook.
6 (y brother's friend was kind of angry after his new headphones were
stolen from his locker. ;ut when someone stole his cell phone, he really
(i$$ed his lid.
'ednesday
Idiom . for the birds
Meaning . totally uninteresting and meaningless
How It Is Used . 0oger's birthday party was supposed to include a
great
magician. 5hen a clown showed up who did silly little kid games and
tricks, 0oger's friends got up, exclaiming, #7his act is for the birds.$
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which for
the birds
is used as an idiom.
2 7he =ones family was looking forward to horseback riding while on
vacation. 5hen they got to the stables, the wrangler wanted to put
1hris on a pony. #+ pony?$ the IJ-year-old exclaimed. #7hat's for the
birds.$
6 7he garden was perfect. It had 3ust the right blooming plants for the
bees and
butterDies and special feeding areas for the birds.
Thursday
Idiom . bent out of shape
Meaning . upset8 o9ended8 to have one's feelings hurt
How It Is Used . #7he last ice cream cone was mine?$ :arold shouted
to his
older brother, teve. =ust then, the boys' mom came in. #Don't get
bent out of sha$e,$ she reassured :arold. #7here's a new box in the
back of the free<er.$
Which Is Right? . 0ead the two selections. 1hoose the one in which
bent out of
sha$e is used as an idiom.
2 David bought his mom a pair of dangling earrings for her birthday.
;ut when he got them home, he could see that one of the earring wires
was bent out of sha$e.
6 7ommy expected to be invited to =acob's birthday party. 5hen the
invitations were handed out and he didn't receive one, he was bent out
of sha$e.
Idioms & 6th 6 weeks, Week 3
Monday $. go through the roof %. head over heels
Tuesday &. knee"high to a grasshopper
'ednesday (. cost an arm and a leg
Thursday ). until the cos come home
- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -
- - - -
Monday
Hy$erbole . go through the roof
Meaning . get very angry8 increase quickly or go very high
%such as price&
How It Is Used . (y mom found information about summer sailing
camp. 5hen she learned the price, she went through the roof?
Recogni+ing Hy$erbole . 0ememberO :yperbole is an expression that
exaggerates, or describes something as greatly more or less than it
really is, and could not actually be true. 0ead the selection. +nswer the
questions below.
5e huddled together in the bathroom to wait out the storm. =ust when
we thought the storm was dying down, we heard a loud crash. 5hen
we emerged from the bathroom, we saw that a tree had gone through
the roof.
25hat does the phrase gone through the roof here describe* U price or cost U
tree
6Is something described in a way that could not actually be true* U
yes U no
VDoes the description use hyperbole* U yes U no
Hy$erbole . head over heels
Meaning . very excited %feeling like you want to do Dips&8 in love
How It Is Used . )race wanted a new puppy. :er mom took her to the
animal
shelter where she could !nd one she liked. +s soon as she saw the
sweet cocker spaniel staring up at her with its big, brown eyes, )race
fell head o#er heels.
Recogni+ing Hy$erbole . 0ememberO :yperbole is an expression that
exaggerates, or describes something as greatly more or less than it
really is, and could not actually be true.
0ead the selection. +nswer the questions below.
I complained to my mom that my friend herry only wanted to talk
about this one actor in a new movie. #Don't worry,$ my mom assured
me. #herry is head o#er heels for him right now. Eventually, she will
lose interest, and you girls can go back to talking about other things.$
2 5hat does the phrase head o#er heels here describe*
U a new movie U herry's feelings
6 Is something described in a way that could not actually be true*
U yes U no
V Does the description use hyperbole*
U yes U no
Tuesday
Hy$erbole . knee""high to a grasshopper
Meaning . small and young8 not old
How It Is Used . 1arol looked forward to revisiting the house where
she was born. #Cothing looks familiar,$ 1arol remarked upon their
arrival. #5ell, I guess it wouldn't,$ her mom explained. #7he last time
we were here, you were 3ust knee!high to a grassho$$er.$

Recogni+ing Hy$erbole . 0ememberO :yperbole is an expression that
exaggerates, or describes something as greatly more or less than it
really is,
and could not actually be true.

0ead the selection. +nswer the questions below.
5e were meeting my cousin, =asper, at the airport. It had been years
since we had seen him. (y mom almost didn't recogni<e him when he
got o9 the plane. #7he last time I saw you, =asper,$ my mom said, #you
were knee!high to a grassho$$er.$
2 5hat does the phrase knee!high to a grassho$$er here describe*
U =asper as a boy U a grasshopper
6 Is something described in a way that could not actually be true*
U yes U no
V Does the description use hyperbole*
U yes U no
'ednesday
Hy$erbole . cost an arm and a leg
Meaning . cost a lot of money8 expensive
How It Is Used . /ete begged his mom and dad to get one of the
newest
televisions on the market. It had the clearest picture and sound, and it
could be hooked up to create an incredible home theater system. #Cot
3ust now,$ /ete's dad replied. #0ight now, those 7V sets cost an arm
and a leg. 5e'll wait a few years until the price comes down.$
Recogni+ing Hy$erbole . 0ememberO :yperbole is an expression that
exaggerates, or describes something as greatly more or less than it
really is, and could not actually be true.
0ead the selection. +nswer the questions below.
5hile basking in the sun, (r. )ordon reDected on how much his family
was en3oying their !rst cruise. #7his sure cost me an arm and a leg,$
he said. #;ut it is an adventure our family will remember for a long
time to come.$

2 5hat does the phrase cost me an arm and a leg here describe*
U cruise U body parts
6 Is something described in a way that could not actually be true*
U yes U no
V Does the description use hyperbole*
U yes U no.
Thursday
Hy$erbole . until the cos come home
Meaning . a very long time in the future8 for a long time
How It Is Used . 7he inDatable pool was too diAcult for my little
brother to
blow up. :e could have blown until the cows came home, but he never
would have fully inDated it.
Recogni+ing Hy$erbole . 0ememberO :yperbole is an expression that
exaggerates, or describes something as greatly more or less than it
really is, and could not actually be true.
0ead the selection. +nswer the questions below.
5orking at the ranch all summer was harder work than Bscar thought.
Dinner wasn't served until the cows came home and all the other
animals were rounded up.
2 5hat does the phrase until the cows came home here describe*
U dinner U cows
6 Is something described in a way that could not actually be true*
U yes U no
V Does the description use hyperbole*
U yes U no