After learning days of the week, colors, and numbers, one of the early vocabulary lessons is family. A straightforward lesson, aside from memorizing the Spanish words and phrases, students should practice associating these new words within meaningful or familiar contexts. While of course students can use the vocabulary to discuss their own families, another effective strategy is to have students pick a famous family and use the vocabulary to describe this family’s members and relationships.
The following example storyboard demonstrates this method. Have students select the spider map template and use members of their own family! Students can pick themselves or one member of the family to place in the center. Each branching cell should include a different family member and the title block should have the appropriate vocabulary term as related to the center family member. In the description blocks, it is helpful if students place the family members’ names for easier grading.
The chart below includes some of the most common family vocabulary, though it can certainly be expanded.
| Family Vocabulary | |
|---|---|
| el padre | father |
| la madre | mother |
| el hermano / la hermana | brother / sister |
| la abuela | grandmother |
| el abuelo | grandfather |
| la tía | aunt |
| el tío | uncle |
| el primo / la prima | cousin |
| el hijo / la hija | son / daughter |
| el nieto / la nieta | grandson / granddaughter |
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Design a simple matching game where students pair Spanish family terms with English meanings or pictures. Interactive games boost recall and engagement!
Print or write Spanish family words on one set of cards and English translations (or pictures) on another. Use bright colors and clear fonts for easy recognition.
Demonstrate how to turn over cards and find matches, explaining expectations. Students learn best when they see the process in action.
Divide students into groups and let them take turns matching the Spanish and English cards. Peer interaction builds confidence and reinforces learning.
Review any challenging vocabulary as a class, clarifying meanings or pronunciations. This supports all learners and encourages questions.
A straightforward activity is to have students create a visual storyboard using Spanish family vocabulary. They pick their own or a famous family, place a member in the center, and branch out to other relatives, labeling each with the correct Spanish term and including first names for clarity.
Use meaningful contexts like having students describe their own or well-known families. Visual organizers, such as spider maps, and associating names with each family member, make vocabulary more memorable and relevant.
Key terms include: el padre (father), la madre (mother), el hermano/la hermana (brother/sister), el abuelo/la abuela (grandfather/grandmother), la tía/el tío (aunt/uncle), el primo/la prima (cousin), el hijo/la hija (son/daughter), and el nieto/la nieta (grandson/granddaughter).
Have students create visual vocabulary boards labeling family members with Spanish terms and first names. Grading is easier when names are included, and visuals help confirm comprehension.
Encourage students to choose a famous family or their own, use creative illustrations, and personalize their storyboards. Adding relatable content increases engagement and retention.