How to Get a Better Grade in Spanish Class
Do you use a textbook in your Spanish class? We have a secret weapon for your next test! Click here to learn vocabulary and grammar topics featured in your textbook using word lists, articles, and quizzes created by SpanishDictionary.com!
Master Basic Spanish Grammar
Did you lack focus in Spanish 1? It’s not too late to turn it around! You just need to revisit the basics of la gramática del español(Spanish grammar).
Are you confused by words like sujeto(subject), sustantivo(noun), verbo(verb), and adjetivo(adjective)? Stop the confusion now and click on the following link to learn the parts of speech in Spanish.
If you don't understand the fundamentals of the Spanish language, you will consistently find yourself struggling in Spanish class. Taking the time to learn (or relearn) the basics will make you comfortable with the language and prepare you for much harder concepts you will learn later on.
The following lessons will help you master the basics, resulting in a better grade in Spanish class!
- Noun Gender and Pluralization
- Spanish Articles
- Noun-Adjective Agreement
- Subject Pronouns
- Present Tense
- Ser vs. Estar
- Verbs Like “Gustar”
- Asking Questions in Spanish
Insider Tip
Learning Spanish grammar can be challenging, so make sure to ask questions if you feel lost. Grammar concepts always resurface, so not asking for help the first time around will come back to bite you.
Start Absorbing Vocabulary Like Una Esponja(A Sponge)
Learning vocabulary is an essential part of foreign language learning. Here is a list of tips about how to start learning vocabulary quickly and effectively.
There is no one-size-fits-all strategy for learning vocabulary, so it is important to try out different strategies until you discover which one works for you.
1. Use Flashcards
Under the “Vocabulary” tab, there are hundreds of lists to enrich your Spanish vocabulary. The lists are in a quiz-style format, but you will have more than one chance to answer correctly! If you get an answer wrong, you will be quizzed on the word again, ensuring that you have learned the word. Make sure your audio is on so you can hear the pronunciation of the words. In addition to the curated vocabulary lists, SpanishDictionary.com gives you the option to create your own custom lists or import words from Quizlet.
Not a big fan of flashcards? That’s OK! Try other ways to learn vocabulary, such as writing lists, using movement and gestures, drawing pictures, or labeling things in your house with post-its.
2. Immerse Yourself in the Language
Nothing is better for language learning than to fully immerse yourself in it. There are many ways to immerse yourself in Spanish that can be done anywhere, anytime. Shine in your Spanish class by trying out a few of the following at home:
- Listen to Spanish podcasts
- Watch TV and movies in Spanish
- Change your phone settings
- Listen to songs in Spanish, such as "Despacito" and "La Cucaracha"
- Read books in Spanish
3. Learn Cognates
Spanish and English have many cognates, or words with the same origin. For example, blusameans blouse. Spend a little time learning cognates and you will quickly realize you know more Spanish than you think you do!
Learning Spanish cognates and cognate patterns will increase your vocabulary tenfold. Just watch out for false cognates!
4. Use New Vocabulary Actively and Often
If you are in a high school Spanish class, chances are you are assigned lists of vocabulary words to memorize. You are not going to absorb the words by simply staring at the list. You need to actively use the words! Try using the vocabulary in a meaningful context.
Also, try not to wait until the night before a test to memorize your vocabulary. Studying vocabulary in small increments more frequently increases retention.
Keep up with SpanishDictionary.com’s word of the day to expand and deepen your vocabulary in Spanish!
Learn Proper Pronunciation and Spelling
Memorizing Spanish vocabulary will not further your language ability if you can’t use the words properly. Proper pronunciation and spelling are essential to effectively communicate in the language.
Under the “Pronunciation” tab, you’ll learn how to pronounce the Spanish alphabet, vowels, tricky words, and more!
Luckily, most of the time words are spelled the same way as they're pronounced. Unlike English, Spanish is a phonetic language. If you know how to pronounce a word, most of the time you’ll automatically know how to spell it.
Looking for more articles about learning Spanish? Check these articles out!
