IB Spanish B SL — All Flashcards
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1316 flashcardsel estilo de vida
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el estilo de vida
lifestyle
la rutina diaria
the daily routine
el ritmo de vida
the pace of life
madrugar
to get up early
el bienestar
well-being
llevar una vida sana
to live a healthy life
el equilibrio entre la vida y el trabajo
work-life balance
desconectar (de las pantallas)
to switch off (from screens)
estar estresado/a
to be stressed
la vida sedentaria
a sedentary life
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la salud
health
el bienestar
well-being
una dieta equilibrada
a balanced diet
hacer ejercicio
to exercise
estar en forma
to be fit
dormir bien / el sueño
to sleep well / sleep
la salud mental
mental health
la comida rápida
fast food
cuidarse
to look after yourself
los hábitos saludables
healthy habits
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la creencia
belief
el valor (los valores)
value (values)
la fe
faith
la tradición
tradition
el respeto
respect
la tolerancia
tolerance
la honestidad
honesty
la igualdad
equality
convivir
to live together (in harmony)
juzgar
to judge
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), aunque (although) — also: además, por lo tanto.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la subcultura
subculture
la tribu urbana
urban tribe (youth subculture)
pertenecer a (un grupo)
to belong to (a group)
la identidad
identity
expresarse
to express oneself
la afición
hobby, passion
el estilo / la estética
style / look, aesthetic
encajar
to fit in
sentirse aceptado/a
to feel accepted
la comunidad en línea
online community
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la lengua materna
mother tongue
el idioma / la lengua
language
ser bilingüe
to be bilingual
el hablante
speaker
la lengua minoritaria
minority language
la lengua indígena
indigenous language
preservar una lengua
to preserve a language
estar en peligro de desaparecer
to be at risk of disappearing
transmitir de generación en generación
to pass on from generation to generation
sentirse orgulloso/a de
to feel proud of
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
el ocio / el tiempo libre
leisure / free time
la afición / el pasatiempo
hobby / pastime
aprovechar el tiempo
to make good use of your time
apuntarse a (un curso)
to sign up for (a course)
quedar con los amigos
to meet up with friends
tocar un instrumento
to play an instrument
practicar un deporte
to play / do a sport
los videojuegos
video games
relajarse / desconectar
to relax / to switch off
divertirse / pasarlo bien
to have fun / to have a good time
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
el viaje
the trip / journey
las vacaciones
the holidays / vacation
el destino
the destination
el alojamiento
accommodation
reservar (un hotel / un billete)
to book (a hotel / a ticket)
hacer la maleta
to pack (a suitcase)
el turismo de masas
mass tourism
viajar por libre
to travel independently
el paisaje
the landscape / scenery
el intercambio
an exchange (e.g. a school exchange)
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la historia de vida
life story
una experiencia
an experience
un recuerdo
a memory
la infancia / la niñez
childhood
un momento inolvidable
an unforgettable moment
un punto de inflexión
a turning point
superar una dificultad
to overcome a difficulty
echar de menos
to miss (someone/something)
crecer / madurar
to grow up / to mature
estar orgulloso/a de
to be proud of
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
el rito de paso
rite of passage
la etapa
stage / phase of life
crecer / hacerse mayor
to grow up / to become an adult
la graduación
graduation
la mayoría de edad
coming of age / legal adulthood
independizarse
to become independent / to leave home
la ceremonia / la celebración
the ceremony / the celebration
un momento inolvidable
an unforgettable moment
marcar un antes y un después
to mark a turning point
despedirse de / dar la bienvenida a
to say goodbye to / to welcome in
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la costumbre
custom / habit
la tradición
tradition
la fiesta (popular)
(popular) festival / celebration
el desfile
parade / procession
el traje típico
traditional costume
la receta tradicional
traditional recipe
el plato típico
typical dish
reunirse (con la familia)
to get together (with family)
las raíces
roots (origins)
transmitir de generación en generación
to pass on from generation to generation
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la migración / migrar
migration / to migrate
emigrar
to emigrate (leave your country)
inmigrar / el inmigrante
to immigrate / the immigrant
mudarse / trasladarse
to move (house/country)
adaptarse / la adaptación
to adapt / adaptation
integrarse / la integración
to integrate / integration
el choque cultural
culture shock
echar de menos / extrañar
to miss (someone/something)
la barrera del idioma
the language barrier
el país de acogida
the host country
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits an email to a friend?
Informal — tú, friendly and personal, with a greeting and sign-off.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
el entretenimiento
entertainment
el espectáculo
show / performance
el concierto
concert
la película
film / movie
la serie
(TV) series
el videojuego
video game
entretenido/a
entertaining / fun
aburrido/a
boring
estrenar (una película)
to premiere / to release (a film)
recomendar
to recommend
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la expresión artística
artistic expression
la obra (de arte)
the work (of art)
el cuadro / la pintura
the painting
la exposición
the exhibition
el museo / la galería
the museum / the gallery
la obra de teatro
the play (theatre)
la película
the film
emocionar / conmover
to move (emotionally)
transmitir un mensaje
to convey a message
apreciar el arte
to appreciate art
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
los medios de comunicación
the media
las noticias
the news
la prensa (digital / en papel)
the (digital / print) press
el/la periodista
the journalist
las redes sociales
social media / social networks
informarse (de / sobre)
to get informed (about)
compartir una publicación
to share a post
comprobar la información
to check the information
la fuente (de información)
the (information) source
las noticias falsas
fake news
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la tecnología
technology
el dispositivo / el aparato
device / gadget
la pantalla
screen
la aplicación / la app
app
las redes sociales
social media
la inteligencia artificial
artificial intelligence
el robot
robot
programar / la programación
to code / coding
la herramienta
tool
depender de la tecnología
to depend on technology
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la innovación científica
scientific innovation
el invento / inventar
invention / to invent
el avance tecnológico
technological advance
la inteligencia artificial
artificial intelligence
el descubrimiento / descubrir
discovery / to discover
la investigación / investigar
research / to research
resolver un problema
to solve a problem
sostenible
sustainable
el medio ambiente
the environment
la ética
ethics
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la relación
relationship
la amistad
friendship
la familia
family
los abuelos
grandparents
la gente mayor
older people
llevarse bien (con)
to get on well (with)
discutir
to argue
apoyar
to support
la brecha generacional
the generation gap
convivir
to live together / to get along
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la comunidad
community
el barrio
neighbourhood / district
el vecino
neighbour
la asociación de vecinos
neighbourhood / residents' association
el espacio público
public space
el huerto comunitario
community garden
el voluntariado
volunteering
colaborar
to collaborate / to work together
echar una mano
to lend a hand
convivir
to live together / to coexist
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
el compromiso social
social engagement / commitment
el voluntariado
volunteering
el voluntario / la voluntaria
volunteer
la comunidad
the community
el barrio
the neighbourhood
el huerto comunitario
community garden / allotment
colaborar
to collaborate / to help out
ayudar a los demás
to help others
comprometerse (con)
to commit / to get involved (with)
concienciar (sobre)
to raise awareness (about)
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la educación
education
la asignatura
the (school) subject
aprobar un examen
to pass an exam
suspender un examen
to fail an exam
tomar apuntes
to take notes
repasar
to revise
la beca
the scholarship / grant
la carrera universitaria
the university degree
matricularse
to enrol
el bachillerato
upper-secondary / the Diploma years
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
el mundo laboral
the working world
el empleo
job / employment
las prácticas
work placement / internship
la entrevista de trabajo
job interview
el currículum
CV / résumé
el sueldo
salary / pay
ganar experiencia
to gain experience
ser puntual
to be punctual
trabajar en equipo
to work as a team
el emprendedor / la emprendedora
entrepreneur
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la ley
the law
la norma / la regla
the rule
el derecho
the right
el deber
the duty / obligation
el/la ciudadano/a
the citizen
la justicia
justice
justo/a — injusto/a
fair — unfair
respetar (las normas)
to respect (the rules)
participar
to take part / participate
la convivencia
living together / coexistence
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
el medio ambiente
the environment
el cambio climático
climate change
la contaminación
pollution
reciclar
to recycle
los residuos
waste / rubbish
ahorrar (agua / energía)
to save (water / energy)
el plástico de un solo uso
single-use plastic
las energías renovables
renewable energy
sostenible
sustainable
proteger la naturaleza
to protect nature
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
el derecho
right
los derechos humanos
human rights
la libertad
freedom
la igualdad
equality
la justicia
justice
la discriminación
discrimination
defender (una causa)
to defend / stand up for (a cause)
firmar una petición
to sign a petition
la manifestación pacífica
peaceful demonstration
la dignidad
dignity
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la paz
peace
el conflicto
conflict
el diálogo
dialogue
la convivencia
living together / coexistence
el respeto
respect
la tolerancia
tolerance
discutir
to argue
llegar a un acuerdo
to reach an agreement
la mediación
mediation
convivir en paz
to live together in peace
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la igualdad
equality
la desigualdad
inequality
la discriminación
discrimination
la diversidad
diversity
los derechos
rights
el respeto
respect
la brecha salarial
the pay gap
el prejuicio
prejudice
luchar (por)
to fight (for)
tratar por igual
to treat equally
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la globalización
globalization
el comercio internacional
international trade
la marca global
the global brand
la cadena de comida rápida
the fast-food chain
el negocio local
local business
el intercambio cultural
cultural exchange
la identidad
identity
la desigualdad
inequality
el consumo
consumption
apoyar lo local
to support what is local
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la ética
ethics
el valor
value
la honestidad
honesty
la justicia
justice / fairness
el respeto
respect
la responsabilidad
responsibility
el consumo responsable
responsible consumption
el comercio justo
fair trade
engañar
to deceive / to cheat
tener en cuenta
to take into account
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
la ciudad
city
el pueblo
village / small town
el campo
the countryside
el barrio
neighbourhood
el ayuntamiento
the town council
el espacio verde
green space
el transporte público
public transport
la contaminación
pollution
el atasco
a traffic jam
recuperar
to revive / to do up (a space)
How do you introduce an opinion in Spanish?
En mi opinión… / Desde mi punto de vista… / Me parece que…
Give two connectors to link ideas.
sin embargo (however), por lo tanto (therefore) — also: además, aunque.
Which register suits a blog for other students?
Informal — tú/vosotros, friendly and personal.
Name the three Paper 1 criteria.
A Language (12), B Message (12), C Conceptual understanding (6).
el saludo
the greeting
la despedida
the sign-off / closing
el destinatario
the recipient
el registro informal
informal register (tú)
Un abrazo, / Besos,
A hug, / Kisses, (informal sign-off)
Te escribo para contarte que…
I'm writing to tell you that…
Escríbeme pronto.
Write back to me soon.
¿Te acuerdas de…?
Do you remember…?
¡Cuánto tiempo!
Long time no see!
Bueno, te dejo.
Anyway, I'll leave it there.
Which register does an informal email use?
Informal — tú/vosotros, a warm personal tone; never usted.
Name the five parts of an informal email.
Greeting → opening → body → wrap-up → sign-off (despedida).
Which criterion rewards the email's conventions?
Criterion C (Conceptual) — greeting, sign-off, consistent register.
Give one informal greeting and one informal sign-off.
Greeting: «¡Hola, [nombre]! ¿Qué tal?» Sign-off: «Un abrazo,»
la entrada (de blog)
the blog post (entry)
el título
the headline / title (often a question)
el gancho / la introducción
the hook / the intro
la voz personal
the personal, opinionated voice
los comentarios
the comments (readers reply below)
¡Hola a todos!
Hi everyone! (public greeting)
Hoy quiero hablaros de…
Today I want to talk to you about…
¿Y vosotros, qué opináis?
And what about you, what do you think?
Os cuento mi experiencia…
Let me tell you my experience…
¡Hasta la próxima!
See you next time! (upbeat close)
Which register does a blog use?
Informal but public — vosotros / general tú, a lively personal voice; never formal usted.
Name the five parts of a blog post.
Catchy title → hook/intro → body → question to readers → upbeat close.
Which criterion rewards the blog's conventions?
Criterion C (Conceptual) — catchy title, personal voice, question to readers, consistent register.
Give one blog hook and one blog close.
Hook: «¡Hola a todos! Hoy quiero hablaros de…» Close: «¿Y vosotros, qué opináis? ¡Hasta la próxima!»
el diario (personal)
the (personal) diary
la entrada
the entry (one dated piece)
la fecha
the date (every entry begins with one)
el registro íntimo
intimate register (yo, first person)
Querido diario:
Dear diary, (the opening)
Hoy ha sido un día…
Today has been a … day…
Me siento…
I feel… (happy / sad / nervous)
No puedo dejar de pensar en…
I can't stop thinking about…
Mañana espero…
Tomorrow I hope…
Buenas noches, diario.
Good night, diary.
Which register does a personal diary use?
Intimate — first person (yo), a private reflective tone; no reader is addressed.
Name the five parts of a personal diary entry.
Date → opening (Querido diario) → what happened → feelings & reflection → looking ahead / close.
Which criterion rewards the diary's conventions?
Criterion C (Conceptual) — the date, «Querido diario», intimate register, reflection.
Give one diary opening and one diary close.
Opening: «Querido diario: hoy ha sido un día…» Close: «Mañana espero… Buenas noches, diario.»
el gancho
the hook — the attention-grabbing first line
la llamada a la acción
the call to action
el hashtag / la etiqueta
the hashtag (#…)
el registro cercano y directo
a close, direct online register (tú/vosotros)
los seguidores
the followers (your readers)
¿Sabías que…?
Did you know…? (a hook)
¡No te lo pierdas!
Don't miss it!
Comparte si estás de acuerdo.
Share if you agree.
Etiqueta a un amigo.
Tag a friend.
Pásate y coméntanos.
Come along and comment.
Which register does a social media post use?
Short, punchy and direct — tú/vosotros, emojis and hashtags welcome; never formal usted.
Name the four parts of a social media post.
Hook → message → call to action → hashtags.
Which criterion rewards the post's conventions?
Criterion C (Conceptual) — hook, call to action, hashtags, direct register.
Give one hook and one call to action for a post.
Hook: «¿Sabías que…?» Call to action: «Comparte y etiqueta a un amigo.»
el saludo formal
the formal greeting (Estimado/a Sr./Sra.:)
la despedida formal
the formal sign-off / closing
el destinatario
the recipient
el registro formal
formal register (usted)
Atentamente, / Reciba un cordial saludo.
Yours faithfully, / Kind regards. (formal sign-off)
Le escribo para…
I am writing to…
Me dirijo a usted con motivo de…
I am contacting you regarding…
Quisiera saber…
I would like to know…
Le agradecería que…
I would be grateful if you could…
Quedo a la espera de su respuesta.
I look forward to your reply.
Which register does a formal letter use?
Formal — usted, a neutral, respectful tone; never tú.
Name the six parts of a formal letter.
Date → greeting → opening → body → closing → sign-off (despedida).
Which criterion rewards the letter's conventions?
Criterion C (Conceptual) — formal greeting, sign-off, consistent register.
Give one formal greeting and one formal sign-off.
Greeting: «Estimado/a Sr./Sra. [apellido]:» Sign-off: «Atentamente,»
el informe
the report
el título
the title
las recomendaciones
the recommendations
el registro formal y objetivo
formal, objective register (impersonal)
El objetivo de este informe es…
The aim of this report is…
Según los datos…
According to the data…
Se observa que…
It is observed that…
Se recomienda…
It is recommended… (impersonal)
Asimismo,…
Likewise, / Furthermore,…
En conclusión,…
In conclusion,…
Which register does a report use?
Formal, neutral and objective — impersonal (se), usted if addressing the reader; never tú or yo creo.
Name the five parts of a report.
Title → introduction/aim → findings (under headings) → recommendations → conclusion.
Which criterion rewards the report's conventions?
Criterion C (Conceptual) — title, headings, recommendations, consistent objective register.
Give one phrase for the aim and one for a recommendation.
Aim: «El objetivo de este informe es…» Recommendation: «Se recomienda…»
la propuesta
the proposal
el objetivo
the aim / objective
la justificación
the justification (the reasons)
el registro formal y persuasivo
a formal, persuasive register (usted)
Atentamente,
Yours sincerely, (formal sign-off)
El objetivo de esta propuesta es…
The aim of this proposal is…
Propongo que…
I propose that…
Esto beneficiaría a…
This would benefit…
Por estas razones, solicito…
For these reasons, I request…
Agradezco de antemano su consideración.
I thank you in advance for your consideration.
Which register does a proposal use?
Formal and persuasive — usted, a clear, confident, justified tone; never tú.
Name the five parts of a proposal.
Title → aim → plan → benefits & justification → call to act.
Which criterion rewards the proposal's conventions?
Criterion C (Conceptual) — title, stated aim, call to act, consistent formal register.
Give one aim phrase and one closing-request phrase for a proposal.
Aim: «El objetivo de esta propuesta es…» Closing: «Por estas razones, solicito su aprobación. Atentamente,»
el conjunto de instrucciones
a set of instructions
el título
the title (says what to make/do)
el paso
the step
el imperativo
the imperative (command form: pela, añade)
la advertencia
the warning / a tip to be careful
Antes de empezar, necesitas…
Before you start, you need…
Primero,… A continuación,…
First,… Next,…
Después,… Por último,…
Then,… Finally,…
Asegúrate de…
Make sure you…
Ten cuidado con…
Be careful with…
Which register does a set of instructions use?
A command register — imperative (pela) or infinitive (pelar); precise, ordered, direct; never tentative.
Name the five parts of a set of instructions.
Title → what you need → numbered steps → tip/warning → encouraging close.
Which criterion rewards the instructions' conventions?
Criterion C (Conceptual) — title, list of what's needed, ordered steps, consistent command form.
Give two sequence connectors for the steps.
«Primero,…» and «A continuación,…» (also «Después,…», «Por último,…»).
el titular
the headline / title
la entradilla
the opening hook (first lines that draw the reader in)
el lector
the reader (your general audience)
el tono ameno
an engaging, lively tone
Hoy en día…
These days… / Nowadays…
Cada vez más…
More and more…
Cabe destacar que…
It is worth noting that…
Por ejemplo,…
For example,…
En definitiva,…
In short,… / In conclusion,…
¿Qué hay detrás de…?
What lies behind…?
Which register does an article use?
Neutral but engaging — informative for a general reader; no tú, no usted, no greeting or sign-off.
Name the five parts of an article.
Headline → engaging hook → first body point → second point/example → conclusion.
Which criterion rewards the article's conventions?
Criterion C (Conceptual) — catchy headline, engaging hook, consistent informative-yet-lively tone.
Give one way to hook a reader and one way to conclude an article.
Hook: «¿Qué hay detrás de…?» or a surprising fact. Conclude: «En definitiva,…»
el titular
the headline / title
la tesis
the stance / main claim you defend
el argumento
the argument that supports your view
la pregunta retórica
the rhetorical question (asked for effect)
el tono persuasivo
a persuasive, opinionated tone
En mi opinión, …
In my opinion, …
No cabe duda de que…
There is no doubt that…
Es evidente que…
It is obvious that…
Sin embargo, …
However, …
En conclusión, creo firmemente que…
In conclusion, I firmly believe that…
Which register does an opinion column use?
First person and persuasive — a clear stance and an opinionated voice; never a neutral report.
Name the five parts of an opinion column.
Title → opening stance → main argument → rhetorical question/counterpoint → opinionated conclusion.
Which criterion rewards the column's conventions?
Criterion C (Conceptual) — catchy title, clear stance, persuasive devices.
Give one phrase to state your view and one to conclude.
View: «En mi opinión, …» Conclusion: «En conclusión, creo firmemente que…»
la reseña
the review
la valoración
the evaluation / appraisal
la recomendación
the recommendation
los puntos fuertes / débiles
the strengths / weaknesses
sin destripar el final
without spoiling the ending
Acabo de ver/leer…
I have just seen/read…
Trata de…
It is about…
Lo mejor es…
The best thing is…
Lo único que falla es…
The only thing that lets it down is…
La recomiendo (sobre todo) a…
I recommend it (especially) to…
Which register does a review use?
Evaluative and engaging — a lively first person; describe, judge, then recommend.
Name the five parts of a review.
Title → what it is → description → evaluation → recommendation.
Which criterion rewards the review's conventions?
Criterion C (Conceptual) — the describe-then-judge shape and a clear recommendation.
Give one phrase to evaluate and one to recommend.
Evaluate: «Lo mejor es…» Recommend: «La recomiendo sobre todo a…»
la entrevista
the interview
el entrevistador / la entrevistadora
the interviewer (who asks)
el entrevistado / la entrevistada
the interviewee (who answers)
el registro semiformal
semi-formal register (usted with a respected guest)
Muchas gracias por su tiempo.
Thank you very much for your time. (closing)
Hoy entrevistamos a…
Today we are interviewing…
¿Cómo empezó…?
How did … begin?
¿Qué consejo daría a…?
What advice would you give to…?
¿Cuál ha sido el mayor reto…?
What has been the biggest challenge…?
Para terminar,…
To finish,…
Which register does an interview use?
Semi-formal — usted with a respected guest, kept consistent; never mix with tú.
Name the five parts of an interview.
Introduction → Q1+answer → Q2+answer → Q3+answer → closing/thanks.
Which criterion rewards the interview's conventions?
Criterion C (Conceptual) — introduction, Q&A pairs, closing thanks, consistent register.
Give one opening line and one closing line for an interview.
Opening: «Hoy entrevistamos a…» Closing: «Para terminar, muchas gracias por su tiempo.»
el discurso
the speech
el público / la audiencia
the audience
el gancho
the hook (what grabs attention)
la llamada a la acción
the call to action
Muchas gracias por vuestra atención.
Thank you very much for your attention. (close)
Hoy quiero hablaros de…
Today I want to talk to you about…
En primer lugar,… En segundo lugar,…
Firstly,… Secondly,…
Os animo a…
I encourage you to…
¿Cuántos de vosotros…?
How many of you…?
Por último,…
Finally,…
Which register does a speech use?
Oral & rhetorical — direct address (vosotros), energetic and persuasive; not a flat report tone.
Name the five parts of a speech.
Address → hook → main points → call to action → memorable close.
Which criterion rewards the speech's conventions?
Criterion C (Conceptual) — address, signposting, a memorable close, consistent register.
Give one address and one closing for a speech.
Address: «Buenos días a todos.» Close: «Muchas gracias por vuestra atención.»
el folleto
the brochure / leaflet
el eslogan
the slogan / catchy line
el titular
the headline / title
la llamada a la acción
the call to action
¡Descubre…! / ¡Ven a…!
Discover…! / Come to…! (hook)
¿Qué te ofrecemos?
What do we offer you?
Cuándo y dónde: …
When and where: …
¡No esperes más, apúntate ya!
Don't wait any longer, sign up now!
Únete a nosotros.
Join us.
el registro persuasivo
persuasive register
Which register does a brochure use?
Persuasive and practical — short sentences, direct appeals, concrete details; not academic.
Name the five parts of a brochure.
Title/slogan → intro → sections with headings → practical details → call to action.
Which criterion rewards the brochure's conventions?
Criterion C (Conceptual) — title/slogan, bullet-point sections, call to action.
Give one brochure hook and one call to action.
Hook: «¡Descubre…!» Call to action: «¡Apúntate ya!»
el titular
the headline
la entradilla
the lead (opening sentence with the key facts)
la cita / las declaraciones
the quote / the statements
el tono objetivo
an objective, factual tone (no opinion)
Ayer tuvo lugar…
Yesterday … took place…
Según las autoridades,…
According to the authorities,…
El suceso ocurrió en…
The event happened in…
«…», declaró el portavoz.
“…,” declared the spokesperson.
Cabe destacar que…
It is worth noting that…
Por el momento,…
For now,…
Which register does a news report use?
Objective — third person, past tense, reported speech; no personal opinion.
Name the five parts of a news report.
Headline → lead → details → quote → closing (el cierre).
Which criterion rewards the report's conventions?
Criterion C (Conceptual) — headline, lead, quote, consistent objective register.
What does the lead (la entradilla) have to do?
Answer who, what, when and where in one opening sentence.
el ensayo
the essay (a balanced, argued text)
la introducción
the introduction that presents the topic
la conclusión
the conclusion (a reasoned view)
el registro formal
formal register (impersonal, balanced)
Por un lado,… Por otro lado,…
On the one hand,… On the other hand,…
En la actualidad se debate si…
There is currently a debate about whether…
En conclusión, considero que…
In conclusion, I believe that…
Sin embargo,…
Nevertheless,… / However,…
Cabe añadir que…
It is worth adding that…
el argumento a favor / en contra
the argument for / against
Which register does an essay use?
Formal and balanced — impersonal, objective; both sides before a reasoned view.
Name the five parts of an essay.
Introduction → arguments for → arguments against → evaluation → conclusion.
Which criterion rewards the essay's conventions?
Criterion C (Conceptual) — introduction, balanced argument, reasoned conclusion, formal tone.
Give one essay opener and one essay concluder.
Opener: «En la actualidad se debate si…» Concluder: «En conclusión, considero que…»
el presente
the present tense
conjugar
to conjugate (change the verb to match the subject)
la raíz
the stem (what's left after removing -ar/-er/-ir)
la terminación
the ending (the part that changes per person)
hablar → yo
hablo (I speak)
comer → yo
como (I eat)
vivir → yo
vivo (I live)
hablar → nosotros
hablamos (we speak)
comer → ellos / ustedes
comen (they / you-all eat)
vivir → tú
vives (you live)
How do you form a regular present verb?
Drop -ar/-er/-ir to get the stem, then add the ending for the person.
Name three uses of the present tense.
Habits & routines, general facts, actions happening now (also near-future plans, «desde hace»).
Why do «trabajo» and «I'm working» match?
Spanish has no separate -ing form in everyday speech — the present covers «I work / I do work / I'm working».
What is the most common present-tense error?
Leaving the verb in the infinitive or mismatching the person (e.g. «yo hablar», «nosotros comen»).
tener → yo
tengo (I have) — yo-go verb
poner → yo
pongo (I put) — yo-go verb
salir → yo
salgo (I go out) — yo-go verb
hacer → yo
hago (I do / make) — yo-go verb
decir → yo
digo (I say) — yo-go verb (also e→i: dices, dice)
querer → yo / tú
quiero / quieres (I want / you want) — e→ie
poder → yo / tú
puedo / puedes (I can / you can) — o→ue
pedir → yo / tú
pido / pides (I ask for / you ask for) — e→i
ser → presente
soy · eres · es · somos · sois · son
ir → presente
voy · vas · va · vamos · vais · van
What are the three patterns of irregular present verbs?
Yo-go verbs (-go in «yo»: tengo), stem-changers (e→ie, o→ue, e→i in a boot shape) and fully irregular (ser, ir).
Which persons keep the normal stem in a stem-changer?
Nosotros and vosotros — the change happens in yo, tú, él and ellos (the «boot»).
Do irregular present verbs have different uses from regular ones?
No — same jobs (habits, facts, now, near-future). Only the form is harder.
What are the two most common irregular-verb errors?
Regularising the stem («podo» instead of «puedo», «quero» instead of «quiero») and forgetting the yo-go («teno» instead of «tengo»).
ser → presente
soy · eres · es · somos · sois · son
estar → presente
estoy · estás · está · estamos · estáis · están
ser → yo / tú
soy / eres (I am / you are — identity)
estar → yo / tú
estoy / estás (I am / you are — state/location)
ser → nosotros / ellos
somos / son (we are / they are)
estar → nosotros / ellos
estamos / están (we are / they are)
ser
to be — identity, origin, profession, characteristics, time & date
estar
to be — location, feelings/states, ongoing «-ando», result of a change
«I am from Spain.»
«Soy de España.» (origin → ser)
«I am at home.»
«Estoy en casa.» (location → estar)
When do you use SER?
For essence: identity, origin, profession, lasting characteristics, time and date.
When do you use ESTAR?
For state: location, feelings/conditions, ongoing «-ando» actions and the result of a change.
Which verb does location always take?
Estar — even for permanent places: «Madrid está en España».
What does «es aburrido» vs «está aburrido» mean?
«es aburrido» = (he/it is) boring; «está aburrido» = (he is) bored — ser/estar shifts the meaning.
gustar
to be pleasing (= to like) — the «backwards» verb
me gusta + …
I like + a singular thing or an infinitive («me gusta el café», «me gusta leer»)
me gustan + …
I like + a plural thing («me gustan los libros»)
Indirect-object pronouns
me · te · le · nos · os · les (to me / to you / to him…)
encantar
to love — «me encanta la música» (I love music)
interesar
to interest — «me interesa el arte» (art interests me)
molestar
to bother — «me molesta el ruido» (the noise bothers me)
doler
to hurt — «me duele la cabeza» (my head hurts), «me duelen los pies»
parecer
to seem — «me parece interesante» (it seems interesting to me)
faltar
to be lacking — «me faltan dos euros» (I'm short two euros)
How does the gustar structure work?
Think «X is pleasing to me»: the thing is the subject, the person is an indirect object (me/te/le…) — «me gusta el café».
When is it gusta vs gustan?
gusta with a singular thing or an infinitive; gustan with a plural thing. The verb agrees with the thing, not the person.
What is the «yo gusto» error?
An English calque — making the person the subject. Correct is «(A mí) me gusta…», never «yo gusto».
Why «A mí me gusta…» with an «a»?
The emphatic «a + person» adds or clarifies who likes it; dropping the «a» («mí me gusta») is wrong.
el pretérito indefinido
the preterite (the simple past for completed actions)
hablar → yo
hablé (I spoke)
comer → yo
comí (I ate)
vivir → él / ella
vivió (he/she lived)
hablar → ellos / ustedes
hablaron (they / you-all spoke)
comer → nosotros
comimos (we ate)
ser / ir → yo
fui (I was / I went — both verbs share this form)
hacer → yo
hice (I did / I made)
tener → yo
tuve (I had)
estar → yo
estuve (I was / I stayed)
When do you use the preterite?
For completed past actions: a single finished event, a sequence of events, or an action at a specific time (ayer, de repente).
Why does the accent on «habló» matter?
«habló» (with accent) is the preterite «he/she spoke»; «hablo» (no accent) is the present «I speak» — the tilde changes the meaning.
What ending does an -er/-ir verb take in the preterite «yo»?
«-í» (comí, viví) — not the -ar ending «-é»; the -er and -ir families share the same preterite endings.
Name three preterite irregulars.
ser/ir → fui, hacer → hice, tener → tuve (also estar → estuve, decir → dije).
el pretérito imperfecto
the imperfect (the past for habits, description and ongoing actions)
hablar → yo
hablaba (I used to speak / I was speaking)
comer → yo
comía (I used to eat)
vivir → nosotros
vivíamos (we used to live)
hablar → ellos / ustedes
hablaban (they / you-all used to speak)
comer → tú
comías (you used to eat)
ser → imperfecto
era (I was / it was)
ir → imperfecto
iba (I used to go)
ver → imperfecto
veía (I used to see)
hacer → imperfecto (tiempo)
hacía (it was — e.g. hacía frío, it was cold)
When do you use the imperfect?
For past habits, descriptions and background, age/time/weather, and «was -ing» — actions that repeat, stretch or describe rather than finish once.
What are the only three irregular imperfect verbs?
ser → era, ir → iba, ver → veía. Every other verb is regular.
Habit in the past: preterite or imperfect?
Imperfect — «todos los días iba al colegio». Using the preterite «fui» would mean it happened just once.
Why must «comía» keep its accent?
The -er/-ir imperfect ending is always «-ía» with a tilde; dropping it («comia») leaves the wrong vowel sound and is a marked error.
el pretérito (función)
completed events: what happened, a single action, a sequence
el imperfecto (función)
background: description, habits, what was going on
comer: comí vs comía
comí = I ate (once, finished — preterite); comía = I used to eat / I was eating (imperfect)
ir: fui vs iba
fui = I went (once — preterite); iba = I used to go / I was going (imperfect)
marcadores → pretérito
ayer, de repente, una vez, el lunes (single, dated, finished moment)
marcadores → imperfecto
siempre, normalmente, todos los días, mientras (repetition or ongoing scene)
Mientras comía, sonó el teléfono
ongoing action (imperfect comía) + the single event that interrupts (preterite sonó)
edad en el pasado
imperfecto: «tenía ocho años» (I was eight) — never the preterite «tuve»
clima en el pasado (trasfondo)
imperfecto: «hacía frío / llovía» (it was cold / it was raining) as background
la hora en el pasado
imperfecto: «eran las tres» (it was three o'clock) — never «fueron las tres»
How do you decide preterite or imperfect?
Ask: the action that happened (preterite) or the scene/background around it (imperfect)?
Which tense interrupts the other?
The preterite (single event) interrupts the imperfect (ongoing action): «Mientras leía, llamaron a la puerta.»
Age, time and weather in the past — which tense?
The imperfect: tenía ocho años, eran las tres, hacía frío — these describe the past scene.
Most common preterite/imperfect mistakes?
Using the preterite for description/age/weather, and using the imperfect for a one-off completed event.
el pretérito perfecto
the present perfect (haber + past participle = «have/has done»)
haber (presente)
he, has, ha, hemos, habéis, han
hablar → participio
hablado (he hablado = I have spoken)
comer → participio
comido (he comido = I have eaten)
vivir → participio
vivido (he vivido = I have lived)
hacer → participio
hecho (he hecho = I have done/made)
decir → participio
dicho (he dicho = I have said)
ver → participio
visto (he visto = I have seen)
escribir → participio
escrito (he escrito = I have written)
volver / poner / abrir → participio
vuelto / puesto / abierto (he vuelto, he puesto, he abierto)
How do you form the present perfect?
Conjugate haber (he/has/ha/hemos/habéis/han) for the person, then add the past participle (-ado / -ido).
When do you use the present perfect?
For the recent past connected to now (hoy, esta semana), for ya / todavía no, and for life experience («¿Has estado alguna vez…?»).
Does the participle agree with the subject?
No — after haber the participle never changes for gender or number: «he comido», never «he comida».
What are the most common present-perfect errors?
Agreeing the participle after haber, splitting haber + participle, or using a wrong irregular («escribido» instead of «escrito»).
el futuro simple
the simple future tense («will + verb»)
hablar → yo (futuro)
hablaré (I will speak)
comer → yo (futuro)
comeré (I will eat)
vivir → nosotros (futuro)
viviremos (we will live)
hablar → ellos (futuro)
hablarán (they will speak)
tener → yo (futuro)
tendré (I will have) — irregular stem tendr-
hacer → yo (futuro)
haré (I will do/make) — irregular stem har-
decir → yo (futuro)
diré (I will say) — irregular stem dir-
poder → yo (futuro)
podré (I will be able) — irregular stem podr-
salir → yo (futuro)
saldré (I will go out) — irregular stem saldr-
How do you form the regular future?
Keep the whole infinitive and add -é/-ás/-á/-emos/-éis/-án (same for -ar/-er/-ir).
Name three uses of the future tense.
Future plans, predictions, and probability/conjecture about the present («¿Quién será?»).
What is the common near-future alternative?
«ir a + infinitivo» — e.g. «voy a estudiar esta noche» means roughly the same as «estudiaré esta noche».
What are the two typical future errors?
Dropping the accent (hablare instead of hablaré) and regularising an irregular stem (teneré instead of tendré).
el condicional
the conditional tense («would + verb»)
hablar → yo (condicional)
hablaría (I would speak)
comer → yo (condicional)
comería (I would eat)
vivir → nosotros (condicional)
viviríamos (we would live)
hablar → ellos (condicional)
hablarían (they would speak)
tener → yo (condicional)
tendría (I would have) — irregular stem tendr-
hacer → yo (condicional)
haría (I would do/make) — irregular stem har-
decir → yo (condicional)
diría (I would say) — irregular stem dir-
poder → yo (condicional)
podría (I would be able) — irregular stem podr-
me gustaría
I would like (a polite, common conditional phrase)
How do you form the regular conditional?
Keep the whole infinitive and add -ía/-ías/-ía/-íamos/-íais/-ían (same for -ar/-er/-ir).
Name three uses of the conditional.
Hypothetical «would», politeness («me gustaría», «¿podrías…?»), and the future-in-the-past («dijo que vendría»).
Which irregular stems does the conditional use?
Exactly the same nine as the future: tendr-, har-, dir-, podr-, saldr-, vendr-, querr-, sabr-, pondr-.
What is the classic conditional error?
Confusing it with the imperfect of -er/-ir verbs: comería (would eat) keeps the whole infinitive, comía (used to eat) does not.
el presente de subjuntivo
the present subjunctive (the mood for wishes, doubt and the unreal)
hablar → subjuntivo (yo)
hable (-ar verbs take the vowel e)
comer → subjuntivo (yo)
coma (-er verbs take the vowel a)
vivir → subjuntivo (yo)
viva (-ir verbs take the vowel a)
hablar → subjuntivo (nosotros)
hablemos (we speak — subjunctive)
ser → subjuntivo
sea (irregular — to be)
ir → subjuntivo
vaya (irregular — to go)
haber → subjuntivo
haya (irregular — there be)
saber → subjuntivo
sepa (irregular — to know)
estar → subjuntivo
esté (irregular, accented — to be)
How do you build the present subjunctive?
Take the present «yo» form, drop the -o, add the opposite vowel: -ar→e, -er/-ir→a.
What is the opposite-vowel rule?
-ar verbs swap to e (hable); -er/-ir verbs swap to a (coma, viva).
Name the six irregular present subjunctives.
ser→sea, ir→vaya, haber→haya, saber→sepa, dar→dé, estar→esté.
What is the typical subjunctive-form error?
Using the indicative after a trigger (estudia instead of estudie) or forgetting an irregular (sabe instead of sepa).
el disparador (subjuntivo)
the trigger — the phrase that calls for the subjunctive (quiero que, espero que…)
quiero que / espero que
wish/hope triggers — «Quiero que vengas» (I want you to come)
me alegro de que / es triste que
emotion triggers — «Me alegro de que estés aquí»
es importante que / es necesario que
impersonal-opinion triggers — «Es importante que descanses»
no creo que / dudo que
doubt/denial triggers — «No creo que sea verdad»
recomiendo que / pido que
influence/request triggers — «Te recomiendo que lo intentes»
ojalá (que)
«I hope / if only» — always triggers the subjunctive
para que / antes de que
conjunctions that always take the subjunctive — «para que entiendas»
creo que vs no creo que
creo que viene (indicative, affirmed) vs no creo que venga (subjunctive, doubted)
el cambio de sujeto
the change of subject — needed for «que» + subjunctive; otherwise use the infinitive
What is the golden rule for the subjunctive?
Trigger (wish/emotion/doubt/influence) + «que» + a CHANGE of subject.
When do you use the infinitive instead of «que» + subjunctive?
When both halves share the SAME subject — «quiero ir», not «quiero que vaya».
Does affirmative «creo que» take the subjunctive?
No — affirmed beliefs take the INDICATIVE («creo que viene»); only the negative «no creo que» takes the subjunctive.
Name three subjunctive trigger families.
Wish (quiero que), emotion (me alegro de que), doubt/denial (no creo que) — plus opinion, influence and «ojalá»/conjunctions.
el imperativo
the imperative — the command form («do this!»)
hablar → mandato «tú» afirmativo
habla (speak! — same as the present «él» form)
comer → mandato «tú» afirmativo
come (eat!)
hablar → mandato «tú» negativo
no hables (don't speak! — uses the subjunctive)
comer → mandato «tú» negativo
no comas (don't eat! — uses the subjunctive)
hablar → mandato «usted»
(no) hable (speak / don't speak, formal — subjunctive)
hablar → mandato «nosotros»
hablemos (let's speak — subjunctive)
hablar → mandato «vosotros» afirmativo
hablad (speak! — plural informal)
Irregular «tú» commands
di, haz, ve, pon, sal, ten, ven, sé (say, do, go, put, leave, have, come, be)
hacer → mandato «tú»
haz (do / make!)
How is the affirmative «tú» command formed?
It's the same as the present «él» form: habla, come, vive (with eight irregulars: di, haz, ve, pon, sal, ten, ven, sé).
How are negative and formal commands formed?
They use the present subjunctive: no hables, hable usted, hablemos.
Where does the pronoun go with commands?
Attached to the affirmative (dímelo) but before the negative (no me lo digas).
What is a common imperative error?
Wrong pronoun placement, or using a bare infinitive as a command (cerrar instead of cierra).
el pronombre de objeto
object pronoun (replaces a noun already mentioned)
el objeto directo (OD)
direct object — lo, la, los, las (what/whom the action falls on)
el objeto indirecto (OI)
indirect object — le, les (to/for whom)
OD: lo / la
it (him/her as direct object): «lo veo», «la veo»
OD plural: los / las
them (as direct object): «los veo», «las veo»
OI: le / les
to him/her/you (sing.) / to them (le, les)
me / te / nos / os
me / you / us / you-all (same for direct and indirect)
Lo veo.
I see it (pronoun before the conjugated verb)
Voy a verlo.
I'm going to see it (pronoun attached to the infinitive)
¡Míralo!
Look at it! (pronoun attached to an affirmative command)
Where does an object pronoun go?
Before a conjugated verb («lo veo»), or attached to an infinitive/gerund/affirmative command («verlo», «viéndolo», «míralo»).
When two pronouns appear, what is the order?
Indirect before direct — «me lo das», «te la mando».
What happens with «le/les» + «lo/la/los/las»?
The indirect «le/les» turns into «se»: «se lo doy», never «le lo doy».
What is the most common object-pronoun error?
Wrong order (lo te), forgetting le→se (le lo), or putting the pronoun after a conjugated verb (veo lo).
el verbo reflexivo
reflexive verb — the subject acts on itself (levantarse, ducharse)
el pronombre reflexivo
reflexive pronoun — me, te, se, nos, os, se
levantarse → yo
me levanto (I get up)
levantarse → tú
te levantas (you get up)
levantarse → él / ella
se levanta (he/she gets up)
levantarse → nosotros
nos levantamos (we get up)
levantarse → ellos / ustedes
se levantan (they/you-all get up)
despertarse / ducharse / vestirse
to wake up / to shower / to get dressed
acostarse
to go to bed (me acuesto, se acuesta)
sentirse
to feel (a state): «me siento contento» (I feel happy)
What is a reflexive verb?
A verb whose subject acts on itself; the infinitive ends in «-se» and it takes a reflexive pronoun (me, te, se…).
Where does the reflexive pronoun go?
Before a conjugated verb («me levanto»), or attached to an infinitive/gerund/affirmative command («levantarme», «levantándome», «levántate»).
What does the reciprocal «se» mean?
It means *each other*: «se quieren» = they love each other, «se escriben» = they write to each other.
What is the most common reflexive error?
Dropping the pronoun («levanto a las siete» instead of «me levanto»), a pronoun/subject mismatch, or wrong placement.
para (propósito)
for / in order to — purpose, goal: «para aprender»
para (destinatario)
for — recipient: «un regalo para ti»
para (plazo)
by — deadline: «para el lunes»
para (destino)
for / towards — destination: «salgo para Madrid»
para (opinión)
in my opinion — «para mí, es difícil»
por (causa)
because of — cause/reason: «por el tráfico»
por (precio)
for — exchange/price: «por diez euros»
por (duración)
for — duration: «por dos horas»
por (a través de)
through / along — movement: «por el parque»
gracias por / por eso
thanks for / that's why — fixed «por» phrases
How do you choose between por and para?
Ask if it's a goal/destination/recipient (→ para) or a reason/price/duration/route (→ por).
What is the «in order to» test?
If «in order to» fits before the English, use «para» + infinitive: «estudio para aprobar».
Give two fixed phrases with «por».
«gracias por» (thanks for) and «por eso» (that's why); also «por favor».
What is the most common por/para error?
Swapping them — «estudio por el examen» (should be «para») vs «estudio por la noche» (time); and «gracias para» (should be «por»).
el comparativo
comparative — compares two things (más/menos/tan)
más … que
more … than: «más alto que» (taller than)
menos … que
less … than: «menos caro que» (cheaper than)
tan … como
as … as (quality): «tan alto como» (as tall as)
tanto/-a/-os/-as … como
as much/many … as (quantity): «tantos libros como»
el / la más … de
the most … of/in (superlative): «el más alto de la clase»
bueno → mejor
good → better: «mejor que»
malo → peor
bad → worse: «peor que»
grande → mayor
big/older → bigger/older: «mayor que»
pequeño → menor
small/younger → smaller/younger: «menor que»
How do you compare two things in Spanish?
más/menos + adjective + que (more/less than), or tan + adjective + como (as … as).
How do you say equality of a quantity?
tanto/tanta/tantos/tantas + noun + como: «tengo tantos libros como tú».
Why is «más bueno» wrong?
«bueno» has an irregular comparative «mejor»; you use «mejor que», never «más bueno» (or «más mejor»).
What is the most common comparative error?
«más bueno» for «mejor», «más mejor» (already comparative), and using «que» for equality (should be «como»).
el conector
the connector (a word/phrase that links ideas)
además
furthermore / also (adds an idea)
sin embargo
however (signals a contrast)
aunque
although (concedes a contrasting point)
porque
because (gives a cause inside a sentence)
ya que
since / as (gives a cause)
por eso
so / that's why (gives a consequence)
por lo tanto
therefore (gives a consequence)
primero… luego… finalmente
first… then… finally (orders a sequence)
por ejemplo
for example (introduces an illustration)
What job do connectors do?
They show how one idea relates to the next — adding, contrasting, giving a cause, a result, a sequence or an example — which builds cohesion.
Why do connectors raise your band?
Examiners reward cohesion directly; two or three well-chosen connectors per paragraph turn a list of sentences into a connected argument.
Why is opening a sentence with «Porque…» an error?
«porque» links a cause inside a sentence; to start a new sentence showing a result you need «Por eso…».
What's the overuse trap with connectors?
Joining everything with «y», or repeating one connector — vary them and match each to the relationship you mean.
el registro
register (the level of formality: formal vs informal)
tú
informal you — friends, peers, family
usted
formal you — strangers, elders, authority, business
vosotros / vosotras
informal you (plural), used in Spain
ustedes
formal you (plural) in Spain; all of you everywhere in Latin America
usted + verbo
uses the él/ella verb form, e.g. usted habla, usted tiene
posesivo con tú
tu / tus (your), e.g. tu casa, tus libros
posesivo con usted
su / sus (your), e.g. su casa, sus libros
pronombre con tú
te / ti, e.g. te mando los documentos
pronombre con usted
le, e.g. le mando los documentos
How do you pick tú vs usted?
From the audience and text type: friends/peers/family and informal messages → tú; strangers/elders/authority/business and formal letters → usted.
What verb form does «usted» take?
The «él/ella» form (no -s): usted habla, usted tiene, usted puede.
Why must register stay consistent?
Mixing tú and usted in one text is a marked error; once you choose a register, every verb, possessive and pronoun must match it.
When you switch tú → usted, what changes?
All three together: the verb (puedes → puede), the possessive (tu → su) and the object pronoun (te → le).
creo que…
I think / believe that… (+ indicative): «creo que es importante»
pienso que…
I think that… (+ indicative): «pienso que tienes razón»
en mi opinión…
in my opinion…: «en mi opinión, hace falta»
me parece que…
it seems to me that… (+ indicative): «me parece que funciona»
desde mi punto de vista…
from my point of view…: «desde mi punto de vista, es justo»
estoy de acuerdo (con…)
I agree (with…) — never «soy de acuerdo»
no estoy de acuerdo
I disagree
por un lado… por otro lado…
on one hand… on the other hand…
no creo que…
I don't think that… (+ SUBJUNCTIVE): «no creo que sea verdad»
no pienso que…
I don't think that… (+ SUBJUNCTIVE): «no pienso que tenga razón»
How do you build a strong opinion?
State the view (creo que / en mi opinión), justify it with «porque / ya que», and add an example (por ejemplo).
When does an opinion trigger the subjunctive?
When it is negated: «no creo que / no pienso que» + subjunctive (no creo que sea, no pienso que tenga).
What's the «no creo que es» error?
A negated opinion can't take the indicative; it needs the subjunctive: «no creo que sea…».
What is the «soy de acuerdo» error?
It's an English calque of «I am agree»; the correct phrase is «estoy de acuerdo».
¿Cuánto dura el Paper 1 (NM/SL)?
1 hora 15 minutos.
¿Cuánto vale el Paper 1 en la nota final?
El 25% de la nota final.
¿Cuántas palabras debes escribir en el Paper 1?
Entre 250 y 400 palabras.
¿Cuántas tareas eliges en el Paper 1?
Eliges 1 de 3 tareas.
¿Cuáles son los cinco temas del curso?
Identidades, Experiencias, Ingenio humano, Organización social, Compartimos el planeta.
el tipo de texto
the text type you must write (blog, email, article, speech…)
el registro
the register — formal (usted) or informal (tú)
las convenciones
the conventions / features of a text type
el destinatario
the audience — the reader you write for
What are the five exam steps for Paper 1?
Read all three → Choose for ideas → Identify text type/audience/register → Plan → Write & check.
How should you choose between the three tasks?
Pick the one you have the most ideas and vocabulary for — not the first you see.
What do you decode from a Paper 1 prompt before writing?
Text type, audience (destinatario) and register, plus the theme it sits in.
What do Criteria A, B and C reward, and the total?
A Language /12, B Message /12, C Conceptual (text-type conventions & register) /6 = /30.
Why read all three tasks before choosing?
So you pick the task you can develop best, not just the first one you understand.
¿Sobre cuántos puntos se evalúa el Paper 1 (NM/SL)?
Sobre 30 puntos, en tres criterios (A, B y C).
¿Qué evalúa el Criterio A y cuántos puntos vale?
Criterio A — Lengua /12: la variedad y la corrección del vocabulario y la gramática.
¿Qué evalúa el Criterio B y cuántos puntos vale?
Criterio B — Mensaje /12: la relevancia, el desarrollo y la organización de las ideas.
¿Qué evalúa el Criterio C y cuántos puntos vale?
Criterio C — Comprensión conceptual /6: las convenciones del tipo de texto, el registro y el tono.
¿Cuántos puntos vale cada criterio en total?
A Lengua /12 · B Mensaje /12 · C Conceptual /6 = /30.
el registro
register — formal (usted) or informal (tú), matched to the reader
las convenciones
the conventions / features a text type needs (a blog title, an email sign-off…)
la cohesión
cohesion — how connectors and paragraphs link your ideas smoothly
Comprensión conceptual
conceptual understanding (Criterion C) — text-type conventions, register and tone for the reader
How do you earn marks on Criterion A (Language)?
Show a range of vocabulary, tenses and connectors, used accurately.
How do you earn marks on Criterion B (Message)?
Make ideas relevant, develop each with a reason/example, and organise them clearly.
How do you earn marks on Criterion C (Conceptual)?
Use the text-type conventions and match the register and tone to your reader.
Which criterion does a blog title or an email sign-off earn?
Criterion C — Conceptual understanding (a text-type convention).
Why is Criterion C the cheapest to protect?
The right form, greeting, sign-off and register cost nothing and bank up to 6 marks — but the wrong form throws them away.
el plan
the plan — your quick outline before writing
el guion
the outline / running order of your text
la idea clave
a key idea — one of the points you develop
el gancho
the hook — an opening line that grabs the reader
la despedida
the sign-off / closing line
el conector
a connector / linking word (además, por eso…)
desarrollar una idea
to develop an idea (with detail and examples)
¿Qué elementos lleva un buen plan?
Tipo de texto, 2–3 ideas clave, un gancho, una despedida y vocabulario/conectores útiles.
¿Cuánto tiempo dedicas a planificar el Paper 1?
Unos dos minutos antes de empezar a escribir.
What are the four planning moves?
Decode → Brainstorm → Order → Note vocab.
Which criterion does a clear plan help most?
Criterion B (Message) — it gives an organised, well-developed answer.
Why develop only 2–3 points rather than many?
Depth with examples beats a long list of shallow points — undeveloped ideas lose Criterion B.
Should you write your plan in full sentences?
No — note form, five short lines; the plan is scaffolding for you, not text for the examiner.
Why order your points before writing?
A clear order keeps the reader following you from opening to close, protecting Criterion B.
el tipo de texto
the text type — the form you must write
las convenciones
the conventions / features that mark out a text type
¿Qué convenciones lleva un blog?
Título, dirigirse al lector y una despedida; registro semiformal.
¿Qué convenciones lleva un correo formal?
Estimado/a, el registro usted y una despedida como Atentamente; registro formal.
¿Qué convenciones lleva un artículo?
Un titular, subtítulos y un gancho de apertura; registro semiformal.
¿Qué convenciones lleva un discurso?
Un saludo al público y preguntas retóricas; registro según el público.
textos personales
personal text types: el correo (a un amigo), el blog, el diario
textos profesionales
professional text types: la carta formal, el informe, la propuesta
textos de los medios
mass-media text types: el artículo, la reseña, la entrevista, el discurso, el folleto
What are the four moves for the text type?
Find the named form → Recall its conventions → pick the Register → Frame the opening & closing.
Why not write a generic essay in Paper 1?
The task names a specific form; a generic essay misses its conventions and loses Criterion C.
Where do you find the text type in a prompt?
It's almost always printed in the prompt — «blog», «correo», «artículo», «discurso» — so underline it first.
How do you decide the register for a text type?
From the form and its reader: a formal letter is usted, a blog is semiformal, a speech depends on the audience.
Which criterion does the right text type protect?
Criterion C (Conceptual) — the conventions and register of the named form.
el registro
the register — how formal or informal the language is
el destinatario
the audience / addressee — the reader you write to
informal (tú)
informal register, using tú — for friends and peers
formal (usted)
formal register, using usted — for officials, teachers, companies
el saludo
the greeting (¡Hola! informal vs Estimado/a formal)
la despedida
the sign-off (Un abrazo informal vs Atentamente formal)
¿Qué marcas lleva el registro informal?
tú, ¡Hola! y una despedida como Un abrazo.
¿Qué marcas lleva el registro formal?
usted, Estimado/a y una despedida como Atentamente.
¿Qué registro usas para una empresa o un profesor?
El registro formal (usted).
What are the four moves for register?
Identify the reader → Choose tú or usted → Match greeting/sign-off/vocab → Keep it consistent.
Which markers move together when you switch register?
The greeting, the verb forms, the possessive and the sign-off — change all four or none.
What's the most common register mistake?
Mixing tú and usted in the same answer — usually hidden in verb endings and possessives.
Which criterion does a consistent register protect?
Criterion C (Conceptual) — register matched to the reader and held throughout.
How do you catch register drift before finishing?
Re-read every verb ending and possessive against your chosen register (tú or usted).
el conector
a connector — a linking word/phrase between ideas
la cohesión
cohesion — how smoothly ideas link and flow
además / también
moreover / also — connectors of ADDITION
sin embargo / no obstante
however / nevertheless — connectors of CONTRAST
aunque
although — a connector of CONTRAST
porque / ya que
because / since — connectors of CAUSE
por eso / por lo tanto / así que
that's why / therefore / so — connectors of CONSEQUENCE
primero / luego / finalmente
first / then / finally — connectors of SEQUENCE
por ejemplo / es decir
for example / that is — connectors that give EXAMPLES
What are the four steps to build a cohesive paragraph?
Topic sentence → Develop with a connector → Add an example → Conclude or transition.
Why use a range of different connectors?
Repeating «y» or one linker caps Criterion A; variety shows range of language.
How do connectors help your IB criteria?
They lift Criterion A (range/accuracy of language) and help Criterion B (organised, clear ideas).
Why is «Porque…» as a standalone sentence an error, and what fixes it?
It leaves a fragment; open a result sentence with «Por eso…» and keep «porque» inside a sentence.
Which connector shows a RESULT/consequence to open a sentence?
«Por eso» (that's why) — also «por lo tanto» or «así que».
el registro
register — formal (usted) or informal (tú); never mix them
la extensión
length — your answer must reach 250–400 words
el tiempo verbal
verb tense — present, past, future; keep it correct and consistent
el tipo de texto
text type — blog, email, article…; use its conventions
desarrollar una idea
to develop an idea — expand it with reasons and examples, not just name it
la concordancia
agreement — gender and number must match (la casa blanca)
¿Qué criterio afecta mezclar tú y usted?
El Criterion C (convenciones y registro).
¿Qué criterio afecta un texto demasiado corto?
El Criterion B (mensaje); no llegas a desarrollar las ideas.
¿Qué criterio afectan los errores de tiempos verbales?
El Criterion A (lengua).
What are the five steps of the final-check routine?
Words → Register → Conventions → Verbs → Ideas.
How long should you reserve for the final check?
About five minutes at the end of the exam.
What's the fix for a mixed register?
Fix one register (tú OR usted) from the greeting to the sign-off and keep it consistent.
Why does avoiding errors beat using rare vocabulary?
A clear, consistent, well-developed answer with correct verbs scores higher than a flashy one full of slips.
What's the fix for listing ideas without developing them?
Develop 2–3 ideas with reasons and examples instead of naming many.
How many recordings are in Paper 2 Listening (SL)?
Three (3) recordings, based on the course themes.
How many times is each Listening recording played?
Twice — once for the gist, once for the details.
How many marks is the Listening section worth (SL)?
About 25 marks (around 45 minutes).
How is the Listening section marked?
Objectively, against an answer key — the answer is right or wrong, not graded on language.
Name the Paper 2 Listening question types.
Multiple choice; true/false + justify (V/F + justificar); fill-in-the-gaps (rellenar huecos); short answer (respuesta corta).
¿Qué es «la comprensión auditiva»?
Listening comprehension — understanding spoken Spanish.
¿Qué es «una grabación»?
A recording — the audio clip you listen to.
What does «verdadero/falso + justificar» mean?
True/false + justify — you decide if a statement is true or false AND give the words that prove it.
How much of the SL grade is Paper 2 worth, and what does it test?
50% — it is the receptive-skills paper: Listening + Reading.
What is the five-step listening technique?
Read the questions → Predict the vocabulary → First listen for the gist → Second listen for the details → Check spelling & blanks.
Why are you allowed to hear each recording twice?
So you can get the general idea (gist) on the first play and catch the specific details on the second.
What should you do in the pause before a recording?
Read the questions and predict the vocabulary you'll hear, so you know exactly what to listen for.
Why is hearing a question-word in the audio NOT enough?
It may be a trap — the same word is often planted in a wrong place. Listen for the meaning and watch for synonyms.
Why write short answers in Listening, not long ones?
It's marked objectively on correctness — a short, accurate answer scores; a long, rambling one risks burying or losing the point.
What is an opción múltiple (multiple-choice) listening question?
A question with a short list of options (a, b, c…) where exactly one is correct; you pick it from what you hear.
How is a listening multiple-choice item marked?
Right or wrong against an answer key — one mark, no half marks.
How many options are correct in a multiple-choice item?
Exactly one.
What is a 'distractor' in multiple choice?
A plausible wrong option, often repeating a word you hear but twisting the meaning.
¿Qué significa «elegir la opción correcta»?
To choose the correct option.
¿Qué es «el significado»?
The meaning — what the whole sentence actually says.
What does «una sola respuesta» mean?
A single answer — only one option is right.
¿Qué quiere decir «marcar» en opción múltiple?
To mark (tick) the option you choose.
How many marks is each multiple-choice item worth?
One mark, awarded all-or-nothing.
What is the five-step method for a listening MCQ?
Read all the options → Predict what each could sound like → Listen for the MEANING → Eliminate the distractors → Choose one and move on.
Why should you read all the options before the audio?
So you know what they differ on and can predict the vocabulary, which lets you eliminate distractors as you listen.
Why is hearing a word from an option NOT enough to choose it?
It may be the word-match trap — the same word is often planted in a wrong option. Judge by meaning, not by a single word.
Why eliminate distractors rather than hunt for the answer?
Ruling out the options the recording contradicts is faster and narrows the choice, making the right option clear.
Should you change a confident answer on the second listen?
No — use the second listen to confirm; only change it if you clearly misheard the first time.
What is a verdadero/falso + justificar question?
A statement you mark true (V) or false (F) AND justify with words from the recording.
In V/F + justify, what do you score for a correct V/F with no justification?
Nothing — V/F alone earns no marks.
What does «justificar» mean in this question type?
To justify — to prove your true/false choice with the relevant words from the recording.
What does «con palabras del texto» mean?
With words from the text/recording — your justification must use the recording's own words.
¿Qué es «la justificación»?
The justification — the exact proving words you quote to support your V/F.
¿Qué significan «verdadero» y «falso»?
True and false.
¿Qué es «una cita» en este contexto?
A quote — the exact words from the recording used as proof.
What is the 'relevant detail' in a justification?
The exact part of the recording that proves your V/F — not the whole sentence and not an unrelated line.
How many parts must be correct to score a V/F + justify mark?
Both — the V/F AND the justification.
What is the five-step method for V/F + justify?
Read the statement → Locate the part it refers to → Decide V or F → Find the exact justifying words → Write BOTH the V/F and the justification.
Why is a bare V/F worth nothing?
The question awards the mark for the V/F PLUS the justifying words; without the justification the answer is incomplete.
Why quote the relevant words rather than the whole sentence?
Copying the whole sentence buries the proof; the mark needs the exact words that decide V or F.
Why watch verb tenses in V/F + justify?
A past-tense detail («antes…») can be true once but false now — the tense can flip whether the statement is V or F.
Why is an irrelevant justification not enough?
It doesn't prove your V/F; only the relevant detail that actually supports the answer earns the justification mark.
What is a rellenar huecos (gap-fill) listening question?
A sentence or note with a blank that you complete with the exact word(s) you hear.
In gap-fill, do spelling and accents count?
Yes — the exact word is the answer, so a misspelling or missing accent can lose the mark.
How many words do you usually write in a gap-fill?
Usually one word or a few — only what the gap needs.
What does the gap-fill answer have to do besides being the right word?
Fit grammatically in the sentence (correct gender, number and sense).
¿Qué significa «rellenar huecos»?
To fill in the gaps.
¿Qué es «el hueco»?
The gap — the blank you complete.
¿Qué es «la tilde» (o «el acento»)?
The accent mark — e.g. the difference between «esta» and «está».
¿Qué significa «encajar gramaticalmente»?
To fit grammatically — your word must agree and make grammatical sense in the sentence.
¿Qué quiere decir «la ortografía»?
Spelling — the correct letters and accents of the word.
What is the five-step method for gap-fill?
Read the gapped sentence → Predict the word type → Listen for it → Write it correctly (spelling + accents) → Check it fits grammatically.
Why predict the word type before listening?
Knowing whether the gap needs a number, a time or a noun tells you exactly what to listen for, so the word jumps out.
Why must your gap-fill answer fit the sentence grammatically?
The gap is part of a real sentence; a word that doesn't agree or make sense is almost certainly the wrong answer.
Why can a right word still lose the mark in gap-fill?
Because spelling and accents are part of the answer — a misspelling or a dropped tilde can cost the mark.
Why write only what the gap needs, not more?
Writing extra words can bury the answer or break the grammar of the sentence; the gap wants the exact word(s), nothing more.
What is a short-answer question (respuesta corta)?
A question you answer in a few words of Spanish — not a sentence — giving the correct, relevant detail.
¿Qué es «la respuesta corta»?
The short answer — a few words, not a full sentence.
¿Qué es «el dato» in a listening question?
The piece of information / the detail the question asks you to give.
¿Qué es «la palabra clave»?
The key word — the one word (or two) you note down as the answer.
What is a short answer marked on?
The correct, relevant content — NOT essay style, length, or perfect grammar.
Does «En bicicleta» score as well as «Va al instituto en bicicleta»?
Yes — a few correct words score full marks; the full sentence adds nothing.
¿Qué significa «responder con pocas palabras»?
To answer in a few words — give just the detail asked for, not a paragraph.
What does «preciso/a» mean for a short answer?
Precise — exactly to the point, only the detail the question asks for.
Should a short answer be in Spanish or English?
In Spanish — a few words of Spanish giving the correct detail.
What is the five-step short-answer technique?
Read the question → Listen for that detail → Note the key word(s) → Write a short, precise answer → Check it answers the question.
Why is a short answer safer than a long one?
The shorter the answer, the less chance of including something wrong that cancels the mark — give the detail and stop.
Why is copying a long chunk of the transcript risky?
The mark is for the precise detail; a long chunk may not answer the question and buries the relevant point.
What is the most common lost mark in short answers?
Answering a DIFFERENT question — a correct fact that doesn't answer what was actually asked scores nothing.
Should you ever leave a short answer blank?
Never — you hear each recording twice, so use the second listen to fill every gap; a blank scores zero.
What are listening strategies?
Overarching techniques (predict, two-listen, deduce, infer) that improve every Paper 2 Listening question type.
¿Qué significa «predecir» in listening?
To predict — to guess the vocabulary you'll hear, from the questions, before you listen.
¿Qué es «la idea general»?
The gist — the general idea of the recording (who, where, what about).
¿Qué es «el detalle» in a recording?
The detail — the specific piece of information a question asks for.
¿Qué significa «deducir»?
To deduce / work out — figure out the meaning of an unknown word from context.
¿Qué es «la inferencia»?
Inference — what is meant but not stated outright (mood, opinion, purpose).
Name the four core listening strategies.
Active prediction; the two-listen strategy (gist then detail); deducing unknown words from context; inference of mood/opinion/purpose.
What is the two-listen strategy?
Use the first listen for the gist and the second listen for the details and to confirm.
¿Qué significa «captar la idea general»?
To capture the gist — to grasp the general idea on the first listen.
What is the master listening routine?
Read the questions → Predict the vocabulary → First listen for the gist → Second listen for the details → Infer what isn't said & check.
Why shouldn't you try to catch every word?
Nobody catches every word — you need the meaning. The gist plus key details beats transcribing the whole clip.
What should you do when you hit an unknown word?
Don't freeze — deduce its meaning from the surrounding context and keep listening; one word rarely costs the answer.
When is inference needed in a listening question?
When the answer isn't word-for-word — you deduce the mood, opinion or purpose from the clues.
Why is the second listen important?
It exists to catch the details and confirm your answers — not just to re-hear the gist.
How many texts are in the Paper 2 Reading section?
3 texts, based on the themes.
Roughly how many marks is the Reading section worth?
About 40 marks (around one hour).
How is Paper 2 Reading marked?
Objectively, against an answer key.
In Reading, does the text stay in front of you?
Yes — unlike listening, you can re-read the text.
Name four common Reading question types.
Opción múltiple, V/F + justificar, vocabulario en contexto, rellenar huecos, emparejar, completar frases, palabras de referencia, respuesta corta.
What does «la comprensión lectora» mean?
Reading comprehension.
What is «vocabulario en contexto»?
A question on what a word means in this particular text.
What are «las palabras de referencia»?
Reference words such as «lo» or «esto» — you say what they point to.
What does «verdadero/falso + justificar» require?
Decide true or false AND quote the line from the text that proves it.
Where is the answer to a Reading question always found?
In the text itself — you locate it, you never need outside knowledge.
Give the 5-step reading routine.
Skim → Read the question → Scan → Locate the line → Answer (paraphrase where asked).
Should you read the text or the question first?
Read the question first, then scan the text for that one detail.
Why might the answer use different words from the question?
Reading tests paraphrase and synonyms — match meaning, not just identical words.
Why is re-reading your advantage in Reading (vs Listening)?
The text never disappears, so you can go back to the exact line instead of answering from memory.
What does «opción múltiple» mean?
Multiple choice.
How many options are correct in a reading MCQ?
Exactly one.
How is a reading MCQ marked?
Objectively, all-or-nothing — right answer earns the mark, a wrong one earns nothing.
What is a «distractor» in a reading MCQ?
A wrong option written to look tempting — often by reusing a word from the text.
What does the command word «elige» tell you to do?
Choose (select the one correct option).
In an MCQ, do you write anything?
No — you only choose the letter of the correct option.
What does «según el texto» tell you about your answer?
It must be supported by the text, not by outside knowledge.
What does «las ventas» mean?
The sales.
What does «cerrar al tráfico» mean?
To close (a street) to traffic.
Give the 5-step routine for a reading MCQ.
Read the question and all options → Find the relevant part → Read that sentence closely → Eliminate the distractors → Choose.
What is the word-match trap?
A wrong option that repeats a word from the text but misreads its meaning, so it feels familiar.
Why is eliminating distractors useful?
It is often easier to rule options out than to spot the right one; what's left is your answer.
Why must you read the WHOLE relevant sentence?
The meaning of the full line decides the answer — deciding on half a sentence loses marks.
Does a shared word between an option and the text prove it's correct?
No — be more suspicious; the writers plant that word, so check the whole sentence's meaning.
What does «verdadero» mean?
True.
What does «falso» mean?
False.
What does «justificar» ask you to do?
Give the reason by quoting the relevant words from the text.
In V/F + justify, how are the marks usually split?
1 mark for the decision (V/F) and 1 mark for a correct justification.
Where does the justification come from?
From the text — you quote or copy the relevant words.
What does «la afirmación» mean in this question type?
The statement you must judge true or false.
Should you copy a whole paragraph as your justification?
No — quote only the specific words that prove your answer.
What does «la protectora de animales» mean?
The animal shelter.
What does «adoptar» mean?
To adopt.
Give the 5-step routine for V/F + justify.
Read the statement → Find the relevant line → Decide true or false → Quote the justifying words → Write BOTH.
Why does a correct V/F earn nothing on its own?
The marks depend on justifying it with the relevant words from the text.
What's the most common way to lose marks in V/F + justify?
Writing V or F with no justification.
Why quote only the relevant words, not the whole paragraph?
A buried justification may not be credited; short and exact beats long and vague.
What two things must every V/F answer contain?
The decision (verdadero/falso) AND the justifying words from the text.
What does «vocabulario en contexto» test?
What a word or phrase means in this particular text, using the context.
What does «significar» mean?
To mean.
What does «el significado» mean?
The meaning.
What is «un sinónimo»?
A synonym — a word with the same meaning.
What is «un falso amigo» (false friend)?
A word that looks like an English word but means something different.
What are the two formats of a vocab-in-context question?
(1) «¿Qué significa “X” en el texto?» and (2) «Busca en el texto la palabra que significa Y».
What does «actualmente» really mean?
Currently / nowadays — NOT 'actually' (a false friend).
What does «echar de menos» mean?
To miss (someone or something).
What does «apuntarse a» mean?
To sign up for / join.
Give the 5-step routine for vocab in context.
Locate the word → Read around it → Infer from context → Match to the option / find the synonym → Check it fits.
Why shouldn't you rely on a dictionary meaning alone?
A word can have several meanings; the context decides which one fits here.
How do you confirm a vocab-in-context meaning?
Re-read the sentence with your meaning slotted in — it should make sense.
How does the 'fit test' expose a false friend?
Slot the English-looking meaning into the sentence; if it makes no sense, it's a false friend.
Can you decode a word you've never learnt?
Yes — the surrounding context usually gives the meaning away.
What does «rellenar huecos» mean?
To fill in the gaps (a gap-fill task).
In a gap-fill, where does the missing word usually come from?
From the text itself, or from a given list.
How long is a typical gap-fill answer?
One word or just a few words.
What does «el hueco» mean?
The gap / blank space to be filled.
What does «completar» mean?
To complete (e.g. complete the sentence).
What does «la palabra que falta» mean?
The missing word.
Does spelling matter in a gap-fill answer?
Yes — it is marked objectively, so spelling and accents must be exact.
What does «según el texto» mean in a gap-fill instruction?
According to the text — the word must come from the text.
What three things must a correct gap-fill word do?
Come from the text/list, fit grammatically, and be spelled correctly.
Give the 5-step gap-fill routine.
Read the gapped sentence → Predict the word type → Find it in the text → Write it correctly → Check it fits.
Why predict the word type before searching?
So you scan for the right kind of word (noun, verb, number) instead of any word.
Why can a correct idea still lose the gap-fill mark?
If the word is the wrong form or is misspelt, objective marking won't award it.
Should you invent a word for a gap if you can't find one?
No — the word comes from the text or the given list; never invent it.
How should you copy a gap-fill word from the text?
Exactly — letter for letter, with the correct accents and form.
What does «emparejar» mean?
To match / pair up (a matching task).
What does a matching task ask you to do?
Link each item in one set to its partner in another set.
Name three common matching formats.
Personas↔opiniones, titulares↔párrafos, and the two halves of a sentence.
How many times is each option used in matching?
Exactly once.
What is «la opción sobrante»?
The extra (spare) option that matches nothing and is left over.
What does «el titular» mean?
The headline / heading.
What does «el párrafo» mean?
The paragraph.
What does «la opinión» mean?
The opinion / view.
Why is there usually one extra option in matching?
It's a distractor — a spare that matches nothing, to catch you out.
Give the 5-step matching routine.
Read both lists → Do the sure ones first → Eliminate → Match the rest → Check none is reused and the spare is left over.
Should you match in order, top to bottom?
No — do the matches you're sure of first; each one removes an option.
Should you match because two items share one word?
No — match on the meaning of the whole statement, not a single shared word.
What if you've used the same option for two items?
One of those matches is wrong — each option is used only once.
Should you ever leave a matching question blank?
No — match every item, using elimination for the ones you're unsure of.
What does «completar frases» mean?
To complete sentences (a sentence-completion task).
What does a sentence-completion task ask you to do?
Finish a sentence so it matches what the text says.
What are the two sentence-completion formats?
Choose the right ending (a/b/c), or complete the sentence with words from the text.
What does «el principio de la frase» mean?
The sentence stem — the beginning you must complete.
What does «el final correcto» mean?
The correct ending.
What does «verdadero según el texto» mean?
True according to the text.
What does «según el texto» mean in a completion task?
According to the text — the ending must match the text.
Does the ending need to fit grammatically?
Yes — the completed sentence must fit the grammar of the stem.
When is a completed sentence correct?
When it is true according to the text, not just sensible in general.
Give the 5-step sentence-completion routine.
Read the stem → Find what the text says → Choose or write the ending → Check the sentence is true per the text → Move on.
Can an ending be wrong even if it sounds reasonable?
Yes — if the text doesn't state it, a sensible-sounding ending is still wrong.
What is the 'time shift' trap in completion?
An ending true for a later part of the text but not for the part the stem asks about.
Should you complete a sentence from memory?
No — complete it from the text, which stays in front of you.
How do you find the right ending?
Match the stem to the exact line in the text and pick the ending that agrees with it.
What is a «palabra de referencia» (reference word)?
A word like «lo» or «esto» that points back to a noun or idea said earlier in the text.
What is «el referente»?
The referent — the actual noun or idea a reference word points to.
What does «referirse a» mean?
To refer to / to point back to (something said before).
What does «sustituir / reemplazar» mean?
To replace / to substitute one word for another.
What do «lo», «la», «los», «las» usually point to?
A noun already mentioned (the direct object).
What do «esto» and «eso» usually point to?
A whole idea or phrase said before, not just one noun.
What do «este» and «ese» usually point to?
The nearest noun.
What do «allí» and «ahí» usually point to?
A place that was mentioned.
What do «su» and «sus» usually point to?
The owner mentioned (whose something is).
Do reference words point forwards or backwards?
Backwards — they point to something said earlier, so read the lines before the word.
Give the 5-step routine for tracking a reference.
Find → Read before → Identify → Substitute → Check.
How does agreement help you find the right referent?
The referent must agree in gender and number with the word, so «lo» needs a masculine singular noun, «las» a feminine plural one.
How do you confirm you have the right referent?
Substitute the noun back in place of the reference word and check the sentence still makes sense.
When you answer «¿a qué se refiere “lo”?», what should you write?
The actual noun or idea it points to (e.g. «el perro»), never the word «lo» itself.
What is a «respuesta corta» (short answer)?
An answer of a few words or a short phrase to a question about the text.
What does «con tus propias palabras» mean?
In your own words — you must paraphrase, not copy the line.
What does «según el texto» tell you?
According to the text — the answer is in the passage, so locate it.
What does «parafrasear» mean?
To paraphrase — say the same idea in different words.
What does «copiar literalmente» mean?
To copy word-for-word — avoid this when own words are required.
What does «contestar / responder» mean?
To answer / to respond (to the question).
In a short answer, what is mainly marked — style or content?
Content correctness — the right information, briefly; style is not the point.
Are minor language slips heavily penalised in a reading short answer?
Usually not — the content (the correct, text-supported idea) is what earns the mark.
May you copy from the text when the question does NOT say «con tus propias palabras»?
Yes — then you may lift the words straight from the text.
Give the 5-step short-answer routine.
Read the question → Locate → Note the key info → Write a short answer → Check it answers the question.
Should you read the text or the question first?
Read the question first, so you know exactly what to look for in the text.
Why shouldn't you over-write a short answer?
Extra padding earns no extra marks and risks contradicting yourself; a few words are enough.
Why should you never leave a short answer blank?
A blank scores zero, but a brief, text-supported attempt can score the mark.
What's the risk of copying the line when «con tus propias palabras» is required?
You may lose the mark for not paraphrasing — you must reword the idea.
¿Cómo se evalúa el oral individual?
Es una evaluación interna: lo califica tu profesor (y luego se modera).
¿Cuánto vale el oral individual en la nota de NM/SL?
El 25% de la nota.
¿En qué se basa el oral individual?
En un estímulo visual (una foto/imagen) ligado a uno de los cinco temas.
¿Cuánto tiempo de preparación tienes antes del oral?
Unos 15 minutos de preparación supervisada (con notas breves).
¿Cuánto dura el oral individual (NM/SL)?
Unos 12–15 minutos en total.
¿Cuáles son las tres partes del oral individual?
Presentación del estímulo · conversación sobre el estímulo · conversación general sobre los temas.
el estímulo visual
the visual stimulus — the photo/image you describe and interpret
la evaluación interna
internal assessment — marked by your own teacher, then moderated
¿Cómo se califica el oral individual?
Criterion A Lengua /12 · Criterion B Mensaje /12 · Criterion C Comprensión e interacción /6 = /30.
How should you use the ~15 minutes of preparation time?
Plan your ideas and key vocabulary, making brief notes — never write a full script to read.
What's the difference between describing and interpreting the stimulus?
Describing = saying what's literally there; interpreting = saying what it means or suggests. The oral needs BOTH.
How do you open a strong presentation on the stimulus?
Describe what you see, then interpret what it means, then link it to the theme.
How do you score well in the discussion and conversation?
Develop every answer with a reason, example or opinion — never give one-word replies.
Why link the stimulus to its theme?
It anchors your presentation and shows the examiner you understood the image and the course themes.
¿Sobre cuántos puntos se evalúa el oral individual?
Sobre 30 puntos en total.
¿Cuáles son los tres criterios de evaluación del oral?
Criterio A — Lengua /12 · Criterio B — Mensaje /12 · Criterio C — Comprensión e interacción /6.
¿Qué premia el Criterio A (Lengua)?
La variedad y corrección del español hablado y una pronunciación clara. Vale /12.
¿Qué premia el Criterio B (Mensaje)?
La relevancia y el desarrollo de las ideas sobre el estímulo y en la conversación (describir, interpretar y discutir). Vale /12.
¿Qué premia el Criterio C (Comprensión e interacción)?
Entender al profesor, responder y mantener la conversación. Vale /6.
¿Cuánto vale el Criterio A en el oral?
/12 puntos.
¿Cuánto vale el Criterio C en el oral?
/6 puntos.
Criterio A — Lengua
Criterion A — Language: variety and accuracy of your spoken Spanish, plus clear pronunciation (/12)
Criterio C — Comprensión e interacción
Criterion C — Interactive & receptive: understanding the teacher and sustaining the conversation (/6)
Which habit earns Criterion A marks?
Showing a range of varied, accurate language with good control and clear pronunciation.
How do you earn Criterion B (Message) marks?
Develop your ideas with reasons and examples, and describe AND interpret the stimulus, linking it to the theme.
How do you earn Criterion C (Interactive & receptive) marks?
Understand and respond to the teacher and keep the conversation flowing — never give one-word replies.
Why can one good answer score on all three criteria at once?
A developed idea (B), said in varied accurate Spanish (A), in response to the teacher and with a question back (C), hits all three.
What's the most balanced way to score across the criteria?
Don't pour everything into one criterion — balance varied language (A), developed ideas (B) and lively interaction (C).
¿Qué dos cosas debes hacer al presentar el estímulo visual?
Describir (lo que hay literalmente) E interpretar (lo que sugiere o significa).
¿En qué tiempo verbal se describe el estímulo?
En presente: «hay», «veo», «una persona sonríe».
describir
to describe — say what is literally in the image (people, place, actions)
interpretar
to interpret — say what the image suggests, means or conveys
el primer plano / el fondo
the foreground / the background — front of the image vs. further away
¿Qué frases sirven para describir el estímulo?
«En la foto hay… / veo…», «en primer plano / al fondo», «a la izquierda / a la derecha».
¿Qué frases sirven para interpretar el estímulo?
«Parece que… / Creo que…», «Da la impresión de que…», «La imagen muestra / trata de…».
¿Cuáles son los cinco pasos para describir un estímulo?
Visión general → detalle → posición → interpretación → enlace con el tema.
«a la izquierda / a la derecha»
«on the left / on the right» — position language for locating elements in the image
What's the difference between describing and interpreting?
Describing = saying what's literally there; interpreting = saying what it suggests or means. The oral needs BOTH.
Why use position language when describing the stimulus?
Words like «en primer plano», «al fondo», «a la izquierda» make the description precise and controlled, and keep you talking.
How do you avoid drying up while describing the image?
Follow overview → detail → position → interpret → link; if you stall, jump to the next move — there's always one more thing to say.
How do you move from describing to interpreting?
Switch from «veo… / hay…» to «parece que… / creo que la imagen muestra…» — from what you see to what it means.
Why is a bare list of objects a weak description?
It's description only, with no interpretation and often no position language — it loses Message marks.
¿A qué está ligado siempre el estímulo visual del oral?
A uno de los cinco temas del curso, y a menudo muestra un elemento cultural del mundo hispano.
¿Qué frase sirve para nombrar el tema del estímulo?
«Esta foto se relaciona con el tema de…».
la referencia cultural
the cultural reference — a festival, custom, place or tradition from the Spanish-speaking world
el mundo hispano / hispanohablante
the Hispanic / Spanish-speaking world — the countries and cultures you can draw on
¿Qué enlace cultural sirve para el tema «Experiencias»?
Una fiesta hispana, como las Fallas de Valencia o el Día de Muertos.
¿Qué enlace cultural sirve para el tema «Identidades»?
La gastronomía hispana, como la paella, los tacos o el mate.
¿Cuáles son los cinco pasos para enlazar un estímulo con el tema y la cultura?
Nombrar el tema → explicar la conexión → añadir una referencia cultural → dar tu opinión → comparar con tu contexto.
«esto se relaciona con el tema de…»
«this relates to the theme of…» — the phrase that names the theme behind the stimulus
comparar con tu contexto
to compare with your own context — link the theme to your own country or experience
Why name the theme out loud, early?
It shows the examiner you understood the stimulus and gives your whole presentation a clear direction.
Why add a cultural reference from the Hispanic world?
It shows genuine cultural knowledge and engagement — exactly what the Message criterion rewards.
Why is a personal comparison worth adding?
Comparing the theme to your own country or experience shows real engagement and lifts your Message marks.
Why is one accurate cultural reference better than several vague ones?
A vague or wrong cultural claim hurts your credibility; one accurate, specific reference is stronger.
How do you turn a plain description into a strong themed answer?
Add one cultural reference and one personal comparison — two sentences that show you know the Hispanic world and your own life.
¿Qué es la presentación en el oral individual?
Es la apertura preparada del oral: hablas tú solo unos 1,5–2 minutos sobre el estímulo visual.
¿Cuánto dura la presentación?
Unos 1,5–2 minutos de habla ininterrumpida sobre la imagen.
¿Qué cinco partes tiene una buena presentación?
Introducción · descripción · interpretación y opinión · enlace al tema · cierre.
¿Con qué frase puedes introducir la imagen?
«La foto muestra…» — una frase clara que diga qué se ve.
¿Para qué sirve el cierre de la presentación?
Para redondear con una frase final que abra la conversación con el profesor.
la introducción
the introduction — one clear sentence saying what the image shows
la interpretación
the interpretation — what the image means or suggests, plus your opinion
el enlace al tema
the link to the theme — connecting the stimulus to one of the five themes
el cierre
the closing — a final sentence that rounds off and opens the conversation
Why does a clear structure help in the presentation?
It fills the 1.5–2 minutes without rambling and means you always know your next move, so you don't freeze.
What two things must a presentation do with the image?
Describe it (what's there) AND interpret it (what it means or suggests) — never just one.
How long should the introduction and close each be?
About one sentence each — spend most of the two minutes on description, interpretation and the theme link.
What should you do if you run out of words mid-presentation?
Silently check which of the five parts you haven't done yet — interpret, link to the theme or round off — and do it.
Why is reading a memorised script a bad idea in the presentation?
It sounds flat, you can only make brief notes anyway, and it stops you sounding natural — plan ideas instead.
¿Qué es la conversación en el oral individual?
Es la parte después de la presentación: el profesor comenta el estímulo contigo y luego pasáis a una conversación general sobre otros temas.
¿Cuál es la regla de oro de la conversación?
Desarrollar las respuestas: nunca contestar con una sola palabra.
¿Cómo justificas una respuesta en español?
Con una razón («porque…») o un ejemplo («por ejemplo…»).
¿Qué frase usas para pedir aclaración si no entiendes?
«¿Podría repetir la pregunta, por favor?» — pedir aclaración es mejor que quedarse en silencio.
¿Cómo aportas tu experiencia personal en la conversación?
Con expresiones como «En mi caso…», «En mi país…» o «En mi instituto…».
desarrollar una respuesta
to develop an answer — to extend it with detail, not stop at one word
justificar
to justify — to back up your point with a reason or an example
aportar tu experiencia
to bring in your own experience — to personalise your answer
pedir aclaración
to ask for clarification — «¿Podría repetir la pregunta, por favor?»
Why is a one-word answer a problem in the conversation?
It gives the examiner almost nothing to mark — you lose Message and Interactive marks. Always add a reason or example.
What's the five-move routine for answering a question well?
Listen, answer and develop, justify with a reason or example, add your own experience, and ask for clarification if unsure.
What should you do if you don't understand a question?
Ask politely for it to be repeated («¿Podría repetir, por favor?») — never go silent.
Roughly how long should each answer be?
About three sentences: the answer, a reason or example, and a touch of your own experience.
Which criterion does developing the conversation help most?
Criterion C (Interactive & receptive /6), and developed, justified ideas also lift Criterion B (Message /12).
¿Qué frase usas para EMPEZAR a describir una foto?
«En la foto hay…», «Se ve…» o «En primer plano…».
¿Qué frase usas para DAR TU OPINIÓN?
«En mi opinión…», «Me parece que…» o «Desde mi punto de vista…».
¿Qué frases usas para GANAR TIEMPO mientras piensas?
«Bueno…», «A ver…» o «Es una buena pregunta…».
¿Qué conectores usas para ENLAZAR tus ideas?
«Además…», «Por otro lado…» o «Por eso…».
¿Qué frase usas para PEDIR ACLARACIÓN si no entiendes?
«¿Podría repetir, por favor?» o «¿Qué quiere decir…?».
una muletilla / un relleno
a filler — a phrase like «bueno…» that buys you thinking time
un conector
a connector / linking word — «además», «por eso», «por otro lado»
ganar tiempo
to buy time — using a filler instead of going silent
dar tu opinión
to give your opinion — «en mi opinión…», «me parece que…»
Why use a filler instead of going silent?
A filler like «bueno… a ver…» sounds natural, buys a moment to think and keeps your Interactive mark alive — silence costs marks.
How many toolkit phrases per category should you learn?
Just two or three per job, learned until automatic — a small, well-practised kit beats a long list you can't recall.
Why should fillers stay in Spanish, not English?
An English «um» or «like» breaks the flow of your Spanish and can cost Language marks — use «bueno…» or «a ver…» instead.
What's the danger of overusing one phrase like «bueno»?
It becomes a distracting tic that sounds nervous — vary your phrases and connectors to earn Language marks.
Are toolkit phrases enough on their own?
No — they're the glue. You still need real, meaningful content between them; glue with no message scores nothing.
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