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he teaching of imaginative language (including idioms) is not only a requirement of the Home Language curriculum; the correct use of idioms expresses inherent cultural values and improves language proficiency. Phase One of this study surveyed the state of instruction in imaginative language. Following a qualitative approach from an interpretivist perspective, the aim was to establish a theoretical basis for a possible intervention. In a case study of an urban school, a semi-rural school and three Grade 3 Setswana Home Language teachers, shortcomings in the syllabus, teacher training and abilities and frequent interference by neighbouring languages were identified as impediments.