A common activity in Spanish class is for students to create a family tree. A great way to get them started is with a family map. Using stock characters as a before activity, students can fill out this character map to get in the habit of using the vocabulary of family members, descriptions, likes, dislikes, age, and gender. Having them fill out this information prior to completing their family tree engages the student, aiding in accurate language acquisition. Students could also choose to complete a family tree project using the storyboard creator. With the upload images feature in the toolbar, they can add pictures of their family members!
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Student Instructions
Create a storyboard that includes members of your family.
Model how to write full sentences for each family member, such as “Mi madre tiene cuarenta años y le gusta leer.” This practice helps students build fluency and reinforces correct grammar.
Give students sentence frames and a list of common descriptive words. This support makes it easier for all learners to express ideas and increases confidence in using new vocabulary.
Organize students into pairs or small groups to share their family maps. This approach encourages speaking practice and helps students learn from each other’s examples.
Allow students to draw or upload pictures of family members. Visuals support memory retention and make descriptions more engaging for all learners.
Give constructive feedback as students present their family trees. Highlight accurate use of vocabulary and gently correct errors to support ongoing language growth.
A '¿Cómo es tu familia?' vocabulary activity helps students practice Spanish family vocabulary by describing family members, their relationships, ages, appearance, and interests—often through family maps or trees.
Start with a family map using stock characters so students can practice vocabulary like family member names, ages, and descriptions. Progress to a family tree project where students include their real or fictional family members with images and short descriptions.
Ask students to make a storyboard: add each family member’s name as the title, write their age, describe their appearance, explain the relationship, and mention a hobby or favorite activity for each person. Encourage use of pictures if possible.
A family map helps students organize thoughts and practice vocabulary in context before moving to a full family tree project, improving engagement and language retention.
Use relatable activities like character maps, allow students to add personal or fictional details, incorporate images, and keep instructions clear and step-by-step to boost participation and language learning.