Directions: On a separate sheet of paper, you will need to 1) define the idiom in your own words, and 2) write a sentence which proves you understand the meaning of the phrase.

Why are we doing this?  Glad you asked.  First, I want to introduce you to figurative language, a method of making your writing more interesting. Second, because you are only writing sentences, I can give you immediate feedback on your writing style.

1. on th ball

2. pull any punches

3. quick on the draw

4. rain check

5. scratch the surface