Translate a Cultural Idiom Using AI

Deepen cultural understanding by using AI to explore foreign language idioms.

Teaching Context:
Designed for Years 7 to 9 language learners. Ideal for enrichment or a cultural unit focused on idiomatic expressions.

Basic AI Prompt:
What does the idiom [insert idiom] mean in [language]? Give examples.

Enhanced AI Prompt:
You are a language and culture expert. Explain what this idiom means in [language]: [insert idiom]. Provide an English equivalent if there is one, describe when it is used, and write a sentence using the idiom in context.

Spice it Up (Optional Extension):
Ask AI to create a mini cartoon or story where the idiom is used. Students can illustrate it or act it out.

Lesson Implementation:
Introduce the concept of idioms with a few fun examples. Have students each find or receive one idiom to explore using the prompt. They use AI to research meaning, context and use. Then, in pairs, students create visuals or skits to show the idiom in use. Provide a sentence scaffold and vocabulary support.

Use Jamboard for sharing idioms as a class. This activity connects language learning with cultural literacy and builds vocabulary through engaging contexts.

Got ideas on different ways to use this prompt? Share them with the class in the comments below!

Also, if you liked this, you'll love the thousands of subject-specific AI prompts in our books section!