«At this point I have been in Lopez de Arenas almost seven months! The time has flown by, and I have just one month left. It has been great seeing the students’ English improve and I am continuously impressed by how much they understand. One thing we could work on more, however, is RESPONDING in English. Students are quick to let me know they understand, but when it comes to forming their own sentences they tend to be much quieter. Here are some pieces of advice I have for students to help them improve their vocabulary and fluency:

Even if you feel silly, always TRY to speak in English in class. Even if it is not perfect, mistakes are the only way to learn what is correct and what is not. I remember making lots of mistakes while learning Spanish, but I learned far more from making myself speak than I ever did from a book. Besides, what is the point of learning another language if you never use it?

When you watch American/British movies or television, listen to the original version with Spanish subtitles. It’s an easy way to get used to hearing how different words sound pronounced by a native speaker without being bored! I really like the shows Modern Family and The Voice. If you ever go to Seville center, there is a movie theater that plays new movies in the original version with Spanish subtitles (Avenida 5). On Wednesdays they are cheaper too!

If you don’t know the word for something, it’s ok! Just use words that you do know. For example, if you don’t know how to say “granja” in English (farm), you could say “the place where there are animals and land.”

Look up the song lyrics (letras) in English to American songs that you like. A lot of popular songs in Spain come from the United States or England, and it is an easy way to learn vocabulary that you can actually use (when you sing you will know what you are saying).

Keep up the good work in class, and talk to you soon!»

By Jessica Gibian