To really learn another language, we need all sorts of input and practice, such as reading, writing, speaking, and listening. And... reading-while-listening! Reading-while-listening means that you're following along (reading a text) while someone reads aloud. One reason this is helpful is that it helps you link sounds to written words. ​Here's an example exercise (and one that would be great practice for students who have completed Spanish 1 or Spanish 2!). The textbooks I use for Spanish 1...

"There's no denying, beauty makes a sound." - Needtobreathe Is beauty the sound of my life? When I started learning Spanish, a friend of mine spent 10 minutes trying to help me learn the small differences between two particular Spanish words. In the end and after much frustration, we concluded that I'd only figure it out through hearing those words in conversation over and over and thereby gaining an ear for what "sounds right." Language acquisition. Catching onto the correct usage of a word...

After reluctantly starting Spanish 1 in highschool, I quickly fell in love with the language and the culture. I'm forever grateful to my homeschool Spanish teacher who challenged me and taught me to enjoy Spanish. My homeschool class competed in a regional language competition with public and private schools and other homeschool groups in the area. Being an over-achiever (and obsessed with Spanish), I volunteered myself to represent my class in the Spanish culture bee in this competition. I...