A fun translanguaging activity with the more advanced language learners is to explore different proverbs in different languages. A great introduction to this is the painting of Pieter Bruegel the Elder called “Netherlandish Proverbs” in which approximately 112 identifiable proverbs and idioms are hidden in the scene.

This easily generates discussion and proverb exchanges for a whole lesson and more. For a subsequent lesson I usually ask them to draw a proverb from their home language adding a literal translation, explanation and if possible the English equivalent. These make up a beautiful and interesting display for your classroom or school.

Thanks for Supporting EAL Learners