10 Essential Words

It was very difficult for me to pick only ten words to teach to my students, especially because in my content area, nearly every word is a new vocabulary word! However, I believe that these words are all foundational to teaching a language to students. If I were asked to pick ten words to use in the real world, I would not choose all of these, but for a classroom setting, all of the words are essential. I want to provide the meaning and a very brief explanation of why I chose each word.

1. Conjugar   (conjugate)
This word is used more than almost any other when grammar comes into play. There are multiple verb endings in Spanish that we do not use in English and it is a confusing concept. If I want to teach my students anything about verbs, they are going to have to know what "conjugate" means.

2. Cognado   (cognate)
There are MANY cognates in English & Spanish, and recognizing that the words are similar is an excellent teaching tool because my students will be able to deduce what a word means rather than simply asking me to be their dictionary. Knowing what a cognate is and applying that knowledge will help them to gain ownership of their learning.

3. ¿Cómo se dice . . . ?   (How do you say . . . ?)
In a language class, it is essential to be able to ask questions and check for comprehension. This is one of those phrases that is especially important in the lower levels of Spanish, but is applicable to every level. Knowing this phrase allows students to voice when they want to expand their vocabulary or to quell an uncertainty.

4. ¿Por qué?   (Why?)
Why is a higher-order thinking question. I think the real question is why would I not choose to teach this word?

5. Pensar   (to think)
Knowing how to say "I (you/he/she/they/we) think" is a basic form of communication. It provides an opportunity for students to discuss what they know and what their opinions are as well as a quick comprehension check. I think it is a crucial aspect of facilitating discussion.

6. Tener   (to have)
Asking someone is they have something, be it an ability, a tool, an idea, is another important part of discussion and class preparation. Tener is a verb that is used in Spanish much more than we use it in English so it is an incredibly useful vocabulary word.

7. Querer   (to want)
Wanting or desiring something automatically implies a deeper level of communication. My students will be able to share their goals, their aspirations, and suggestions of what they think works and doesn't work in my classroom. It is a way to create a more closely knit community, too!

8. (no/sí) entender   [(no/yes) to understand]
Comprehension is key in any subject, especially a foreign language. If my students don't understand something, I want them to be able to tell me! Also, it is an efficient way to check to see if I am moving at an appropriate pace for their skill levels. I don't want anyone to feel uncomfortable because I never provided them with the tools to ask when they are confused.

9. Poder   (to be able to)
Encouragement is a huge part of my own goals for my future teaching. I want my students to believe in themselves and to believe in their peers. In addition, this verb is very common and can be used in a variety of contexts, including reviewing other vocabulary.

10. ¡Bien!   (Good!)
I want my students to know when they succeed. I hope that they are proud of their learning and they they have a positive attitude about my subject and in my classroom. Optimism is a tool students can use to advance their learning and it is fundamental for self-efficacy.