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Spanish Vocabulary

Sports, Travel, and the Home

Dr. Robert Blake

¡Bienvenidos! Ready for the big game? Building on the vocabulary and skills that you have already mastered, this third course of the specialization will introduce new vocabulary that will prepare you to discuss sports, pastimes and politics -- important cultural elements of the Spanish-speaking world. You’ll also add new vocabulary relating to travel and living arrangements. This course also introduces the progressive tense and past tense and you will add to your vocabulary of helping verbs.

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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Discuss sports and pastimes using basic vocabulary, practice talking about trips using basic travel-related vocabulary, and discuss living arrangements using new vocabulary
  • Talk about ongoing events using the grammatical construction estar + present participle (ndo)
  • Use helping verbs with the present participle (ir, venir, ando, seguir, continuar)
  • Use the expression hace + time + present tense with activities that have been going on for some time
  • Use the preterite past tense to refer to actions completed in the past
  • Choose the appropriate adverb to describe past actions
  • Compare and contrast the use of the preterite and imperfect past tenses
  • Produce irregular preterite tense verb conjugations

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Helps students develop fluency in sports, pastimes, and politics-related vocabulary
Designed for learners with prior Spanish knowledge
Taught by instructors with vast experience in Spanish language instruction
Incorporates a range of interactive exercises to enhance engagement
Covers travel and accommodation-related vocabulary to facilitate practical communication during trips
Introduces grammatical concepts such as present progressive and past tenses for effective communication

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Reviews summary

Practical spanish vocabulary and grammar progression

According to learners, this course serves as a highly effective next step for Spanish language acquisition, particularly praised for its practical vocabulary in areas like sports, travel, and the home. Students consistently find the grammar explanations for the progressive and past tenses (preterite and imperfect) generally clear and thorough, although many acknowledge the inherent challenge of mastering these complex concepts. While the course provides a well-structured progression and helps solidify understanding for many, some learners suggest that additional independent practice or external resources may be required for full grammar mastery. The content is widely considered highly useful for real-world scenarios.
Course offers a natural and logical learning path.
"It felt like a natural progression."
"This course was an excellent continuation!"
"Excellent follow-up course. It deepens understanding of practical Spanish."
"I found this course very well-structured."
Explanations of progressive and past tenses are clear.
"...explanations of the progressive and past tenses were very clear."
"The discussions on past tenses were well-structured, building on previous knowledge."
"The grammar explanations are top-notch. I appreciated how it broke down the nuances of preterite and imperfect."
"I found the grammar explanations mostly clear..."
Expands useful vocabulary for daily conversations.
"The vocabulary for sports and travel was incredibly useful..."
"This course truly expanded my Spanish vocabulary in practical areas. The 'home' section was particularly helpful for daily conversations."
"I found the vocabulary relevant, especially for travel."
"The vocabulary is practical and immediately usable."
Some learners desire additional practice exercises.
"More practice exercises would be beneficial."
"My only minor suggestion would be more interactive exercises."
"I wish there were more opportunities for hands-on practice within the course."
Mastering preterite and imperfect requires extra effort.
"The grammar sections on preterite vs. imperfect were a bit challenging at times..."
"I struggled with the past tenses. It felt like a big jump from previous courses."
"The transition to past tenses felt rushed and not adequately explained for someone at my level. I had to seek external resources frequently..."
"Mastering the preterite/imperfect distinction takes significant independent practice. It definitely requires dedication."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home with these activities:
Review the basics of Spanish grammar
Reviewing the basics of Spanish grammar will help you refresh your memory and make it easier to learn new material in the course.
Browse courses on Spanish Grammar
Show steps
  • Review the parts of speech in Spanish.
  • Review the different verb tenses in Spanish.
  • Practice conjugating Spanish verbs.
Learn about the history and culture of Spanish-speaking countries
Learning about the history and culture of Spanish-speaking countries will help you better understand the language and its people.
Browse courses on Spanish Culture
Show steps
  • Read books and articles about Spanish history and culture.
  • Watch documentaries about Spanish-speaking countries.
  • Listen to Spanish music and podcasts.
Practice speaking Spanish with a language partner
Practicing speaking Spanish with a language partner will help you improve your fluency and confidence.
Show steps
  • Find a language partner who is native or fluent in Spanish.
  • Schedule regular practice sessions with your language partner.
  • Practice speaking Spanish for at least 30 minutes each session.
Five other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all eight activities
Volunteer at a local Spanish-language organization
Volunteering at a local Spanish-language organization will help you improve your language skills and learn more about the culture.
Show steps
  • Find a local Spanish-language organization that offers volunteer opportunities.
  • Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities.
  • Sign up for a volunteer opportunity and start helping out.
Contribute to an open-source Spanish-language project
Contributing to an open-source Spanish-language project will help you improve your coding skills and learn more about the language.
Show steps
  • Find an open-source Spanish-language project that you are interested in.
  • Contact the project maintainers and inquire about how you can contribute.
  • Make a contribution to the project.
Mentor other students who are learning Spanish
Mentoring other students who are learning Spanish will help you improve your own language skills and learn more about the culture.
Show steps
  • Find other students who are learning Spanish.
  • Offer to mentor them and help them with their studies.
  • Meet with your mentees regularly and help them with their language learning.
Write a short story in Spanish
Writing a short story in Spanish will help you improve your writing skills and creativity.
Show steps
  • Choose a topic for your story.
  • Write an outline for your story.
  • Write a draft of your story.
  • Revise and edit your story.
Read 'Don Quixote' by Miguel de Cervantes
Reading 'Don Quixote' will help you improve your reading comprehension and cultural understanding of the Spanish-speaking world.
View Don Quixote (Gothic Fantasy) on Amazon
Show steps
  • Read the book in Spanish.
  • Summarize each chapter.
  • Analyze the characters and themes of the book.

Career center

Learners who complete Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Language Instructor
As a Language Instructor, you teach people how to speak Spanish. Whether you're teaching in a classroom or online, you'll need to be able to communicate effectively in Spanish. The "Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home" course from University of California, Davis will help you build a strong foundation in Spanish vocabulary, so you can confidently teach students the basics of Spanish and help them achieve their language learning goals.
See salaries and explore the career path for Language Instructor
Interpreter
As an Interpreter, you help people communicate in real-time. Whether you're interpreting for a business meeting, a legal proceeding, or a medical appointment, you'll need to be able to communicate effectively in Spanish. The "Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home" course from University of California, Davis will help you build a strong foundation in Spanish vocabulary, so you can confidently interpret conversations and help people communicate effectively.
See salaries and explore the career path for Interpreter
Translator
As a Translator, you help people communicate across languages. Whether you're translating documents, websites, or videos, you'll need to be able to communicate effectively in Spanish. The "Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home" course from University of California, Davis will help you build a strong foundation in Spanish vocabulary, so you can confidently translate content and help people connect with each other.
See salaries and explore the career path for Translator
Diplomat
As a Diplomat, you represent your country in foreign affairs. Whether you're working in a foreign embassy or consulate, you'll need to be able to communicate effectively in Spanish. The "Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home" course from University of California, Davis will help you build a strong foundation in Spanish vocabulary, so you can confidently represent your country and promote its interests abroad.
See salaries and explore the career path for Diplomat
International Business Consultant
As an International Business Consultant, you help businesses expand into new markets. Whether you're working with companies in the United States or abroad, you'll need to be able to communicate effectively in Spanish. The "Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home" course from University of California, Davis will help you build a strong foundation in Spanish vocabulary, so you can confidently advise businesses on how to succeed in the global marketplace.
See salaries and explore the career path for International Business Consultant
Foreign Service Officer
As a Foreign Service Officer, you represent the United States abroad. Whether you're working in a foreign embassy or consulate, you'll need to be able to communicate effectively in Spanish. The "Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home" course from University of California, Davis will help you build a strong foundation in Spanish vocabulary, so you can confidently represent the United States and promote American interests around the world.
See salaries and explore the career path for Foreign Service Officer
Real Estate Agent
As a Real Estate Agent, you help people find their dream homes. Whether you're working with buyers or sellers, you'll need to be able to communicate effectively in Spanish. The "Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home" course from University of California, Davis will help you build a strong foundation in Spanish vocabulary, so you can confidently help your clients find the perfect home.
See salaries and explore the career path for Real Estate Agent
Travel Writer
As a Travel Writer, you get to explore the world and share your experiences with others. Whether you're writing about your adventures in a foreign country or sharing tips on how to travel on a budget, you'll need to be able to communicate effectively in Spanish. The "Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home" course from University of California, Davis will help you build a strong foundation in Spanish vocabulary, so you can confidently write about your travels and inspire others to explore the world.
See salaries and explore the career path for Travel Writer
Journalist
As a Journalist, you inform the public about important events and issues. Whether you're writing for a newspaper, magazine, or website, you'll need to be able to communicate effectively in Spanish. The "Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home" course from University of California, Davis will help you build a strong foundation in Spanish vocabulary, so you can confidently report on the news and keep the public informed.
See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist
Tour Guide
As a Tour Guide, you have a chance to teach about your city and its rich culture. Whether you're leading groups of tourists through historic neighborhoods or showing them the city's hidden gems, you'll need to be able to communicate effectively in Spanish. The "Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home" course from University of California, Davis will help you build a strong foundation in Spanish vocabulary, so you can confidently share your knowledge of the city with visitors from all over the world.
See salaries and explore the career path for Tour Guide
Humanitarian Aid Worker
As a Humanitarian Aid Worker, you provide assistance to people in need around the world. Whether you're working in a refugee camp or a disaster zone, you'll need to be able to communicate effectively in Spanish. The "Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home" course from University of California, Davis will help you build a strong foundation in Spanish vocabulary, so you can confidently provide aid to people in need and make a difference in their lives.
See salaries and explore the career path for Humanitarian Aid Worker
Customer Service Representative
As a Customer Service Representative, you help customers with their questions and concerns. Whether you're working in a call center or in a retail store, you'll need to be able to communicate effectively in Spanish. The "Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home" course from University of California, Davis will help you build a strong foundation in Spanish vocabulary, so you can confidently help customers with their needs.
See salaries and explore the career path for Customer Service Representative
Social Worker
As a Social Worker, you help people overcome challenges and improve their lives. Whether you're working with individuals, families, or communities, you'll need to be able to communicate effectively in Spanish. The "Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home" course from University of California, Davis will help you build a strong foundation in Spanish vocabulary, so you can confidently help people access the resources they need and improve their well-being.
See salaries and explore the career path for Social Worker
Nonprofit Program Manager
As a Nonprofit Program Manager, you oversee the implementation of programs that address social and environmental issues. Whether you're working with a local nonprofit or an international organization, you'll need to be able to communicate effectively in Spanish. The "Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home" course from University of California, Davis will help you build a strong foundation in Spanish vocabulary, so you can confidently manage programs that make a difference in the world.
See salaries and explore the career path for Nonprofit Program Manager
Teacher or Professor
Your students are ready for a big change. Using your knowledge from the "Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home" course from University of California, Davis, you can prepare a new generation of students for the world stage. Spanish is one of the most popular languages in the world, spoken by over 500 million people across the globe. With a strong foundation in Spanish vocabulary, your students will gain a competitive edge in the job market and be prepared for careers in business, education, government, and more.
See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher or Professor

Reading list

We've selected 13 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home.
Cover image
Crónica de la lengua española 2023-2024
Save
This is the official dictionary of the Spanish language, and it is an essential reference tool for anyone who wants to learn or use Spanish correctly. It provides definitions, pronunciations, and examples of usage for all words in the Spanish language.
(Español) Crónica de la lengua española 2023-2024 (NUEVAS...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Saber hablar
Save
Comprehensive textbook for learners of Spanish as a foreign language. It is written in Spanish and provides a structured approach to learning the language, with a focus on communication.
(Español) Saber hablar (Spanish Edition)
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Introducción a la lingüística hispánica
Save
Provides a comprehensive descriptive grammar of the Spanish language. It valuable resource for students who want to learn more about the structure and workings of the Spanish language.
(Español) Introducción a la lingüística hispánica (Spanish...
Hardcover
$$$
Introducción a la Lingüística Hispánica, 2nd Edition
Hardcover
$$$
(Español) Introducción a la lingüística hispánica (Spanish...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
¡Reconquista! ¿Reconquista? Reconquista
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Provides a collection of Spanish texts, from different genres and time periods. It useful resource for students who want to improve their reading comprehension and learn more about Spanish literature.
(Español) ¡Reconquista! ¿Reconquista? Reconquista
Paperback
$$
(Español) ¡Reconquista! ¿Reconquista? Reconquista (Spanish...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
El mundo privado de los emigrantes en indias
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Provides an overview of the Spanish language in the world, including its history, dialects, and current status. It useful resource for students who want to learn more about the global context of the Spanish language.
El mundo privado de los emigrantes en Indias...
Paperback
$
(Español) El mundo privado de los emigrantes en indias...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Spanish in Colombia and New York City
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Provides a history of the Spanish language, from its origins to the present day. It useful resource for students who want to learn more about the evolution of the Spanish language.
Spanish in Colombia and New York City (IMPACT:...
Hardcover
$$$$
Cover image
Complete Spanish Step-by-Step, Premium Second...
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This popular textbook is designed for beginners and offers a structured approach to learning Spanish. It features clear explanations of grammar and vocabulary, as well as a variety of exercises and activities to help students practice what they have learned.
Complete Spanish Step-by-Step, Premium Second...
Paperback
$$
(Español) Complete Spanish Step-by-Step, Premium Second...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Verb Tenses,...
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This workbook focuses on one of the most challenging aspects of Spanish grammar: verb tenses. It provides numerous exercises and activities to help students master the different tenses and their usage.
Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Verb Tenses,...
Paperback
$$
Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Verb Tenses,...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Portraying Authorship
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Comprehensive resource for Spanish learners, including lessons, grammar explanations, vocabulary lists, and cultural insights. It is suitable for both beginners and intermediate learners.
Portraying Authorship: Juan Manuel and the Rhetoric...
Hardcover
$$$
Portraying Authorship: Juan Manuel and the Rhetoric...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
The Language of Heresy in Late Medieval English...
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Well-respected dictionary for Spanish learners. It includes over 170,000 words and phrases, as well as grammar notes and cultural information.
The Language of Heresy in Late Medieval English...
Hardcover
$$$$
The Language of Heresy in Late Medieval English...
Kindle Edition
$$$
Cover image
La formación artística: creadores-historiadores...
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Beginner-friendly guide to Spanish, with a focus on practical communication. It covers basic grammar and vocabulary, as well as tips for pronunciation and conversation.
(Español) La formación artística: creadores-historiadores...
Paperback
$$$$
Cover image
A Frequency Dictionary of Spanish
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Comprehensive grammar reference for Spanish learners, with clear explanations and exercises. It covers all aspects of Spanish grammar, from basic to advanced.
A Frequency Dictionary of Spanish
Paperback
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A Frequency Dictionary of Spanish
Kindle Edition
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Cover image
Aprendizaje experiencial
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Practical guide to Spanish for travelers. It covers basic vocabulary and phrases for getting around, asking for directions, and communicating in everyday situations.
Aprendizaje experiencial
Paperback
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Aprendizaje experiencial
Kindle Edition
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Course image
Effort
3 to 4 hours per week for 4 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
University of California, Davis
Instructor
Dr. Robert Blake
Language
English
Transcript
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Helps students develop fluency in sports, pastimes, and politics-related vocabulary
Designed for learners with prior Spanish knowledge
Taught by instructors with vast experience in Spanish language instruction
Incorporates a range of interactive exercises to enhance engagement
Covers travel and accommodation-related vocabulary to facilitate practical communication during trips
Introduces grammatical concepts such as present progressive and past tenses for effective communication
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