Healthy habits
To Fly Off the Handle
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Idiom of the Week! – Fly off the Handle
This activity strengthens students’ speaking and listening skills. Use the video as a spark for discussion. Ask open-ended questions like, “Have you ever seen someone lose their temper suddenly?” or “What are some better ways we can deal with big feelings before they explode?” Encourage students to share stories respectfully and practise listening carefully to others. This is a great chance to develop empathy, reflection, and confident self-expression.
Focus: Speaking & Listening
Watch Gavin’s short video to discover where the saying “fly off the handle” really comes from. It may sound dramatic, but it all started in the 1800s with a loose axe head, a powerful swing, and a moment of total chaos!
After the video, turn to a partner and talk about what you found interesting. Have you ever lost your temper suddenly, like the axe head flying through the air? What made you feel that way? What happened afterwards? Be ready to share your thoughts with the class.
Vocabulary – Weekly Keywords
This task helps children explore new vocabulary in a meaningful context. Start by reading the ten words aloud together and discussing any that are unfamiliar. Encourage children to define the words using their own language to promote ownership and deepen understanding. Link the vocabulary back to the story of the flying axe head and the sudden burst of anger to make each word relevant and memorable. A quick sketch helps visual learners build lasting connections.
Focus: Vocabulary Building
Here are your ten powerful words for the week:
temper, explode, warning, sudden, anger, handle, swing, outburst, expression, calm.
Find out what each word means by looking it up or asking someone.
Write a short definition in your own words.Use each word in a sentence that shows you understand it.
Choose one of the words and draw a small sketch to help you remember it.
