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Book review – Arriba, Abajo y Alrededor

Arriba, Abajo y Alrededor = Up, Down and Around

by Katherine Ayres & Nadine Bernard Westcott is a wonderful book that was a great hit with all the children.  It is simple to read with lovely bright illustrations.  I used it to accompany a food unit I did during the Autumn.Arriba abajo y alrededor

With the older children, we read it together, taking turns as we passed it around the class. This was a great exercise for them to practice reading with vocabulary they recognised but in short sentences.

With the younger one as well as simply reading it, we played a game. Whenever I said each of the words in the title the children had to act out the meaning.  So when I read (arriba) they stretched up as high as they could, get down on the floor as low as they can when I read (abajo) and spin around for (alrededor). This is great fun and really gets the children listening and understanding first prepositions while learning new vocabulary.Read More »Book review – Arriba, Abajo y Alrededor

celebrating kings day

Exploring the Rich Traditions of Three Kings Day in Spanish-Speaking Countries

Welcome to a vibrant celebration that brings joy, tradition, and cultural richness to Spanish-speaking countries every January 6th – Three Kings Day! Known as Día de los Reyes Magos in Latin America and Spain, this enchanting holiday commemorates the legendary journey of the Three Wise Men to honor the birth of baby Jesus. As we delve into the captivating tales, unique customs, and mouthwatering delicacies surrounding this festive occasion, prepare to embark on an extraordinary exploration of the rich traditions that make Three Kings Day truly unforgettable. So grab your crown and let’s dive into a world brimming with magic and merriment!

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Speekee® Accelerate Review: Weeks 1-6

 

Weeks 1 & 2

These lessons introduce simple everyday phrases in Spanish such as “Donde esta…” (where is) and “No lo sé” (I don’t know).  They are introduced in the videos without written meaning and repeated often.

We did the name & number worksheet activities that go with these lessons.Read More »Speekee® Accelerate Review: Weeks 1-6

Review – Speekee® Accelerate: Spanish for kids

I am reviewing the Speekee® Accelerate Programme that was launched in November 2015.

Speekee is an Online Spanish resource designed for children that are Home Educated.  I subscribed to the Fastrack program designed for 4-7 year olds earlier this year and found it to be very useful in supporting our language learning journey at home.  The Accelerate programme is designed for students age 8+.

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Do I need to become certified to provide translation services?

I was researching how to become a certified translator here in the UK and was surprised to discover that there is no certification or accreditation requirement in this country.  In fact, so long as you are registered with the HMCR you can legally provide translation services. You do not need a fixed address either which means that translation services can be offered as online services!

However, in order for my clients to feel confident with the translations services I provide it is important for me to become certified at the highest level.  Read More »Do I need to become certified to provide translation services?

Speekee Giveaway

Spanish Club friend Lulu will be choosing the winning name!

I have teamed up with Jim Porter at Speekee.com to offer children on my Home Ed Spanish Club the opportunity to win three weeks free subscription to this amazing On-Line resource!

If your child currently attends my Home Ed Spanish Clubs in Warrington or Haslington you are eligible to enter the giveaway.

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Alternatives to A-Levels for language learners

A-level-students2

A-Level results are out this week.  I didn’t take A-Levels, so don’t feel qualified to discuss the stress, anxiety but also overwhelming joy that getting your results must bring.  (GCSE’s were bad enough for me). It has made me contemplate however the alternatives that are available for language learners. Read More »Alternatives to A-Levels for language learners