Helping your children with their Spanish homework is a great way to improve your own knowledge of the Spanish language.
Learning together makes it more like fun! #children Click To Tweet
From my own experiences, when learning Spanish as a second language, far too much emphasis is placed on learning grammatical exercises, rather that oral practice. Fortunately, this appears to be changing and more attention is being given to practical usage.
As our children attend Spanish state school, there is a requirement to study “lengua”, Spanish language. They have the fantastic opportunity to learn Spanish just like native Spanish children do. This may be more challenging at the outset but I truly believe it will be something they will thank us for in the future.
We are in the world of not only new vocabulary but also antónimos, sinónmos, refranes and trabalenguas, amongst others. Have I lost you yet?
There are actually very few questions Mr. Google (as referred to in our house) is unable to help us with. Although, as it is not our native tongue, some Spanish homework can require quite a lot of research.
The following websites are also very useful for language homework:
- http://www.wordreference.com/sinonimos/
- http://www.wordreference.com/English_Spanish_Dictionary.asp
- http://www.guiainfantil.com/
- http://www.educapeques.com/
Recently Francesca, now aged seven, had to quote some short “refranes / dichos populares” (proverbs/sayings) and explain their meanings for her homework.
Here are a few “refranes cortos, para niños” that we liked and wanted to share with you:
“En boca cerrada no entran moscas”
Loosely translated as: Loose lips sink ships.
Meaning: At times it is better to be silent than putting your foot in it.
“Zapatero a tus zapatos”
Loosely translated as: Cobbler, stick to your shoes.
Meaning: Do not go where you don’t not belong or you’re not invited / Mind your own business.
“El que tiene boca se equivoca”
Loosely translated as: Anyone with a mouth makes mistakes.
Meaning: Do not be afraid to say something wrong / Everyone makes mistakes.
“De tal palo tal astilla”
Loosely translated as: A chip off the old block.
Meaning: Children tend to resemble their parents.
“Quien tiene un amigo tiene un tesoro”
Loosely translated as: He who has a friend has a treasure.
Meaning: Friendship is very important and we must learn to care and value it.
“El que calla otorga”
Loosely translated as: Silence is consent.
Meaning: By remaining silent you are assumed to agree.
“No dejes para mañana lo que puedas hacer hoy”
Loosely translated as: Do not leave for tomorrow what you can do today.
Meaning: Laziness is not the best companion in life.
“Más vale maña que fuerza”
Loosely translated as: Better skill than strength:
Meaning: In life’s it’s more important to be skilful than strong.
So there you have come of our favourite “refranes” from recent Spanish homework activities. Do you have any favourites to share?
Next, we’ll share some “trabalenguas”. We may even add a few videos to give you a giggle…
¡Hasta pronto!
If you are thinking about Moving to Spain, our book will answer a lot of your questions …
To BUY on Amazon.es Click Here!
To Buy on Amazon.com or Amazon.co.uk Click the corresponding image below
PS: Thanks to the Facebook Group Spanish Mums London for helping m out with the translations!
