Are you learning Spanish but just can't seem to see any huge improvements?
Taking Spanish classes but all you're doing is struggling to answer simple vocabulary questions?
Well, something you can think about is how to incorporate what you've learned in your Spanish lessons into everyday life. Or better yet, how you can make Spanish a part of your life. Read on for five fun and simple ideas for improving your Spanish.
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Can you learn Spanish just by watching TV?
You may be wondering, how is watching TV going to help you improve your Spanish?
Without many of us realising it, we are constantly picking up new slang from the videos and shows we watch, even if it's in a language other than English. Let's face it, while you may or may not be part of the Gen Z community, there are sure to be some phrases you've picked up from Reddit memes and TikTok videos. It is what it is (cue the viral meme).
Using this same logic, simply hearing the language being spoken to you and picking up key phrases in Spanish movies, or even a Spanish series, helps you learn to use the right pronunciation and intonation for Spanish words. You can even write these phrases down in your notebook for future reference, and boost your understanding of Spanish.
Treat your Spanish series like a short semester of Spanish lessons! Here are a couple of our recommendations for beginner and intermediate Spanish learners, just to get you started:
El Laberinto Del Fauno
One of those easy Spanish movies for beginners, but also an award-winning one at that. This classic by Guillermo del Toro is among the most successful Spanish movies among non-native speakers of the language. Pick up vocabulary about history, war and revolution from a young girl's point of view. Recommended for beginner to intermediate Spanish learners.
También La Lluvia
This movie is almost like a film about a film. Taking place during the 1999 to 2000 Cochabamba Water War in Bolivia, get to know a film crew that ended up involved in the protests and movement against the privatisation of the city's water supply company. Spanish, Mexican and Bolivian accents are used in the film, so it's among the Spanish movies where you can pick up different Spanish dialects.
También La Lluvia is directed at Spanish learners who are at the intermediate level, but you can still enjoy it as a beginner Spanish learner.
Now then, what other Spanish learning resources should you look out for?
What Spanish songs should I listen to?
After you're done with your Spanish series, music is another great way to get to know the language. And not to exaggerate here, there are tons of Spanish songs for you to choose from: be it rock, hip-hop, salsa or reggaeton. The songs below are recommended because of their repetitive lyrics and easy-to-sing-along-to Spanish words, but we're certain you'll find your favourite Spanish genre of music and other Spanish songs in no time.
Even beginners can sing along to these Spanish songs:
Echame La Culpa
You may know him from his hit song, Despacito, but this song from Luis Fonsi doesn't share the same happy ending. Sung together with Demi Lovato, this is a story of two lovers who each want to take the blame for the failures in their relationship, wanting to forget their pain and being tired of fighting all the time.
Despite the message of the song, the pop/reggaeton vibes simply make it irresistible to not sing along to. Since the song is not entirely sung in Spanish, you may even be able to memorise the lyrics after listening to it a few times.
Hey DJ
We're not surprised if you already know this hit from CNCO! It helps that there are several remixes that include English lyrics in the song, but we also want to challenge you to listen to the original song in Spanish (featuring Puerto Rican artist, Yandel). Again, the repetitive lyrics will help you pick up the song quickly, but you'll also benefit from studying the conjugations used in the song.
Try to find the conjugations of poner, gustar and bailar in the song.
What is the best free app to learn Spanish?
Now that you've picked up vocabulary and grammar from Spanish songs and Spanish movies, you're going to need to learn how to use them correctly and perhaps similar words to help you build your knowledge of the language. And let's not forget comprehension, reading, writing and speaking skills that cement your understanding of Spanish.
Other than taking online Spanish classes, you can also consider using Spanish learning apps. Many popular ones offer free versions and are geared towards building those essential Spanish language skills you need while using interactive games and quizzes to keep learners engaged. It's a fun way to boost your Spanish learning if all you have is a few minutes a day.
Keep it up and you'll gain the benefits of learning the Spanish language in no time.
Busuu
All of the Spanish lessons on this platform are curated based on the CEFR, covering skills such as reading, writing, speaking and listening in Spanish. As many of the voice recordings are done by native speakers, you're going to benefit greatly in terms of listening and speaking through this app. Learn new words through memorable pictures and examples, too.
MosaLingua
This is an app recommended for those who want to learn Spanish common phrases and words but are struggling to use them. Like online Spanish classes, you can learn Spanish that fits your level of learning and reflect your current language skills. That way, you can steadily progress without worrying about whether you know how to use your Spanish common phrases.
Are there Spanish cultural events in Malaysia?
I think we can all agree that it's fun to learn Spanish through our devices and various online learning platforms, but sometimes the human touch is what makes learning Spanish special. For sure, spending time around others who are also interested in the language, or taking Spanish lessons just like you, will boost your language-learning journey by turning it into a social experience.
But where can you find these like-minded people?
Well, look out for Spanish cultural events near you! Whether it is a fiesta with music and dancing, or a food festival serving local Spanish cuisine, these cultural events are fantastic opportunities for you not only to polish your Spanish listening and conversational skills but also to immerse yourself in the wonderful Spanish culture of art, theatre, film and more!
Luckily, you don't have to travel all the way to Spain to experience the culture. Mark these Spanish cultural events in your calendar:
Flavours of Spain Festival
If you've ever wanted to try paella, tapas, or cold-cut meats made the Spanish way, this is your golden ticket to try these food items and loads more! Hosted by the Malaysian Spanish Chamber of Commerce & Industry La Cámara, you're going to have to ready your stomach for delectable delights served by world-renowned chefs.
Take this chance to use your Spanish language skills to enjoy the friendly camaraderie brought together by the love for Spanish food.
Latin American Festival Malaysia
While not specific to Spain, this is one festival you should attend if you want to get to know the different Latin American regions that speak Spanish. Look forward to witnessing the diversity of the Latin American region through dance, music, food and handicraft. There are even lucky draws to be won, such as a flight ticket to a Latin American country!
The experience will definitely bring you closer to Spain, and potentially give you a good Spanish language history lesson.
Where do I find the best Spanish lessons?
Finally, you can improve your mastery of this Romance language through Spanish classes. Spanish classes are especially beneficial if you need someone to guide you through language skills such as vocabulary, grammar and comprehension, or if you're looking for planned Spanish lessons that offer you some structure to keep you on track with your progress.
If you want to learn with a profesora o profesor de español who is trained to teach you as a beginner learner up until the advanced level, then you've come to the right place. Superprof offers Spanish lessons not only at an affordable price, but also a learning experience that is fun and engaging given the right tutor.
What do we mean by "the right tutor"?
We've seen many students who learn Spanish struggle because they have committed to an expensive tuition fee only to realise that their tutor doesn't fit their learning needs. That is why at Superprof, we will belanja your first lesson so you can get to know your Spanish tutor first.
For as low as RM25, you can take Spanish classes with a Superprof tutor of your choice. Simply visit our page to find out more, and boost your Spanish learning!
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