I think this refers to the cultural aspects behind culture. Things such as slang and turns of phrase are difficult to learn because they often make no sense when directly translated. Also things like Benedict Arnold in English for a traitor would require explanation to be used in another language. Just the same, there are many references in other languages that would have to be explained. That kind of thing doesn’t often get taught in language classes. So the cultural aspect of language is often lost when it is taught.
A fellow student, Roxanna H. responded with:
I am not sure I agree with you. While many phrases cannot be directly translated, there are many phrases that have English equivalents. I think that looking at language acquisition the question is what is the end goal of teaching the language. If one bases success off of fluency, I think our standard becomes different. I teach my students slang and idioms. I make it a point to speak with native speakers so that I can learn new slang and new idioms. I can also teach my students about daily life and about cultural norms. Culture is a critical part of language learning. Learning words without learning about the people who speak them are takes away from the experience. This is not to say that we can teach them EVERYTHING. There are only 180 school days after all. However, I make it a point to bring in people who can tell my students about current music, movies, and slang and make an effort to teach them language that is used on the street. I do this because I know they will encounter it. There are certain things that may not be able to be taught in a classroom, but the limitations are due to time rather than the ability of information to be passed from the teacher to the student.
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I think Roxanna's ideas are bomb and I should try to implement them as well.
Another idea: teach words using pictures. Idea is that the words stand for things rather than for translations of things.
