Want to get a better grade in Spanish class? If you’re struggling with homework, tests, or classroom participation, it’s time to figure out a strategy for success!
In addition to our top tips for getting an “A” in Spanish class, this article will also help you learn how to study for a Spanish test without cramming.
Ready for the insider secrets on how to pass Spanish with flying colors? Here are suggestions from some of the best Spanish tutors online.
Study Tips for Spanish Class
Spanish class isn’t the time to zone out! Make the most of class time with these helpful tips.
Silently answer every question that the teacher asks the class, then listen for the correct answer from your teacher.
If you’re constantly staying engaged by mentally answering every question your teacher asks, you’ll be reinforcing grammar, vocabulary, and general fluency.
Then, when you really need the answer (for example, when your teacher calls on you), the answer will already be on the tip of your tongue!
Treat every class exercise like a Spanish quiz, and keep track of the answers you didn’t know.
A big part of studying successfully is using your time wisely. Be sure to keep track of what you don’t know, so that if you only have a short time to study, you can immediately zero in on these areas.
Use any extra time in class to study your vocabulary.
Keeping up with memorizing Spanish vocabulary is a key method to progressing in the language. As your vocabulary list keeps growing, study it consistently, and it will be much less overwhelming. You’ll become a more natural Spanish speaker, too!
Ask your teacher questions when you don’t understand something.
The old adage about there being no stupid questions really is true. In fact, teachers love it when students ask questions, because it makes it clear to us what’s still confusing to our students, so we’re in a better position to help them.
Anytime you ask a question, you’re also doing a favor to the countless other students who are wondering the same thing, but are too afraid to speak up!
Teach a concept to a classmate.
When a classmate doesn’t understand something and you’re able to explain it, do so. This helps cement the concept in your brain.
Teaching someone else will help you figure out any fine points you may be still working out. If you can explain something and answer any questions that arise from your explanation, you have also maximized your understanding of the concept.
Mimic your teacher’s Spanish accent and other natives speakers’.
A large part of sounding like a native speaker of a language is speaking confidently and convincingly, so envision yourself in a Spanish-speaking country, and play the part!
Use your time wisely in the classroom – this helps minimize your study time at home.
As a student, it can be easy to fall into the hole of using class time to socialize or zone out. The smartest students, however, are those who realize that if you spend your class time in maximum focus and concentration, you’ll have much less work to do at home!
How to Study for a Spanish Test
The learning doesn’t end when Spanish class gets out! Make sure you really understand how to study, especially if you have a test coming up (so you can avoid cramming). Here are the essentials.
Always translate your homework to be sure you know what things mean.
This is a form of studying, and it will save you time in the long run. You can translate the meaning verbally or write it down on a separate sheet of paper.
Study a section of vocabulary every day, focusing on the words that were introduced in class that day.
If you’re having trouble memorizing some words, make flashcards for them. This ensures you won’t fall behind in vocabulary memorization and have to cram before your Spanish test.
Be very focused in class; you can learn most of the material just by paying close attention and staying on task.
This means you will be in reviewing mode before a test instead of cramming mode.
Write down grammar concepts and examples on index cards, and review them every couple days.
Trying to comprehend too many Spanish grammar concepts in a short amount of time can leave you confused. This method will ensure you have plenty of time to digest each concept.
How to Pass a Spanish Test
It’s go-time! Now that you know how to study for a Spanish test, you’ll be well-prepared come test day. Here’s what to keep in mind as you take the test.
Check to make sure your nouns and adjectives agree in number and gender.
Don’t forget to use the correct plural, masculine, or feminine form of the word!
Your verb endings should match the subject of each verb.
Be sure to double check your conjugations!
Look at the previous sentence and the sentence that follows when filling in blanks.
These sentences usually contain clues that as to which vocabulary word you should use.
Reread your answers all the way through once you’ve finished the exam.
If you have the time, this will save you from making simple mistakes!
With each of these tips, you should be able to easily improve your grade in Spanish class. Try to implement one suggestion per week, and you’ll see a noticeable difference in your overall skill level!
Need some extra help with your Spanish classes? Working with a private tutor can be an excellent way to learn how to speak Spanish both in and out of the classroom. Search for a Spanish tutor today!
Post Author: Joan B.Joan B. lives in Carmichael, CA and has been teaching high school Spanish for more than 18 years. Joan helps students improve on tests and increase their conversational ability. Learn more about Joan here!
Special thanks to the following bloggers, who contributed to this list:
- Caleb Howard, Señor Howard
- Elizabeth Detlinger, La Clase de la Señora Detlinger
- Carrie Toth, Somewhere to Share
- Dustin Williamson, Williamson CI & TPRS
- Justin, SpanishPlans.org
- Photos by: University of Central Arkansas