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Spanish Vocabulary

Cultural Experience

Dr. Robert Blake

¡Bienvenidos! This second course in the specialization will build on the basic vocabulary you learned in the first course, and you will begin to build the skills necessary to express your likes and dislikes orally and in writing. You’ll also begin to explore the some of the common cultural experiences of the Spanish-speaking world through a visit to the marketplace. A series of interactive activities and videos will provide opportunities for practice and continued exploration of the cultural context of the Spanish-speaking world.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Talking About the Market and Food
The first module of this course will continue to expand the vocabulary you built in the first course of this specialization - Spanish Vocabulary: Meeting People. Our discussion will focus on food, and we’ll visit an open air market. You’ll be able to express your likes and dislikes using the verb “gustar,” and you will be able to ask culturally appropriate questions. A main focus of the module will be the use of indirect object pronouns and we’ll learn some common useful expressions.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Builds vocabulary on daily routines, which is core for basic conversations in Spanish
Develops conversational skills in expressing likes and dislikes
Provides hands-on practice opportunities through interactive activities and videos
Requires prior completion of the first course in this specialization

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Reviews summary

Building spanish skills through culture

According to learners, this course is a largely positive follow-up to the introductory Spanish course, focusing on expanding useful vocabulary related to everyday life, markets, routines, and leisure. Students particularly appreciate the way the course integrates engaging cultural content and utilizes helpful interactive activities and videos to make learning relatable and practical. While the course provides clear explanations for some grammar points like "gustar" and basic pronouns, some learners found later grammar concepts can be challenging, specifically mentioning reflexive verbs and the passive voice, noting these might require additional practice.
Practice elements aid learning.
"A series of interactive activities and videos will provide opportunities for practice..."
"The videos visiting the market were particularly helpful."
"Good interactive elements overall."
"The exercises reinforced the concepts effectively."
"The interactive activities kept me engaged."
Builds well on the previous course.
"This course was a great follow-up to the first one."
"A solid intermediate step."
"Highly recommend as a next step after the introductory course."
"Build on the basic vocabulary you learned in the first course..."
Expands vocabulary through cultural context.
"I really enjoyed learning the vocabulary related to food and markets. The cultural insights woven into the lessons made it much more engaging..."
"Learning about the market and daily routines in a cultural context was fascinating. The exercises reinforced the concepts effectively."
"Loved the cultural focus! Visiting the market virtually added so much context. The vocabulary was relevant for everyday conversations."
"It greatly expanded my vocabulary beyond the basics. Learning about the market and daily routines in a cultural context was fascinating."
Some grammar concepts require extra effort.
"...though the section on reflexive verbs was a bit challenging and needed rewatching."
"The passive/impersonal voice part felt a bit rushed."
"...some grammar points, like the direct/indirect object pronouns and reflexive verbs, were quite difficult for me. I felt I needed more practice specifically on these."
"I struggled a bit with the passive voice section; it felt less intuitive than the other grammar points covered earlier."

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: Cultural Experience with these activities:
Review Spanish vocabulary
Refresh your Spanish vocabulary before starting the course.
Browse courses on Spanish Vocabulary
Show steps
  • Review the vocabulary list from a previous Spanish course or textbook.
  • Use flashcards or a language learning app to practice memorizing the vocabulary.
  • Try to use the vocabulary in sentences or short conversations.
Watch a video on Spanish verb conjugation
Helps refresh memory regarding Spanish verb conjugation
Show steps
  • Navigate to YouTube and search for video on Spanish verb conjugation.
  • Select a video that clearly explains verb conjugation
  • Watch the video in its entirety
Review Spanish grammar
Brush up on your Spanish grammar before starting the course.
Browse courses on Spanish Grammar
Show steps
  • Review the grammar concepts covered in previous Spanish courses or textbooks.
  • Practice the grammar rules with exercises or online quizzes.
  • Pay particular attention to the grammar topics that will be covered in the course.
Seven other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all ten activities
Practice Spanish verb conjugation exercises
Reinforces understanding of Spanish verb conjugation
Show steps
  • Access online exercises or purchase a textbook.
  • Complete 10-15 exercises to practice verb conjugation
  • Review answers to check for understanding
Practice Spanish vocabulary
Practice Spanish vocabulary to build a strong foundation for the course.
Browse courses on Spanish Vocabulary
Show steps
  • Review the vocabulary list provided in the course materials.
  • Create flashcards or use a language learning app to practice memorizing the vocabulary.
  • Use the vocabulary in sentences or short conversations to practice using it in context.
Watch Spanish language videos
Immerse yourself in the Spanish language and culture by watching videos.
Browse courses on Spanish Language
Show steps
  • Find Spanish language videos on YouTube or other video platforms.
  • Start with videos that have subtitles or are spoken slowly.
  • Pay attention to the pronunciation, grammar, and vocabulary used in the videos.
Participate in Spanish conversation groups
Practice speaking and listening to Spanish with native speakers or other learners.
Browse courses on Spanish Language
Show steps
  • Find a Spanish conversation group in your area or online.
  • Attend the conversation group regularly and participate actively.
  • Don't be afraid to make mistakes and ask for feedback.
Write a Spanish journal or blog
Improve your writing skills and vocabulary by writing in Spanish.
Browse courses on Spanish Language
Show steps
  • Choose a topic that interests you and write about it in Spanish.
  • Use the vocabulary and grammar you've learned in the course.
  • Get feedback on your writing from a native speaker or teacher.
Read a Spanish novel or short story
Enhance your Spanish reading comprehension and vocabulary by reading a Spanish novel or short story.
View Cien Años de Soledad (Edición de Regalo) / One... on Amazon
Show steps
  • Choose a Spanish novel or short story that is appropriate for your level.
  • Read the book or story slowly and carefully, paying attention to the vocabulary and grammar.
  • Look up unfamiliar words and phrases in a dictionary or online.
Contribute to a Spanish language learning community
Enhance your Spanish skills and connect with other learners by contributing to a Spanish language learning community.
Browse courses on Spanish Language
Show steps
  • Join a Spanish language learning community online or in person.
  • Participate in discussions, ask questions, and share your own knowledge.
  • Help other learners with their Spanish language learning journey.

Career center

Learners who complete Spanish Vocabulary: Cultural Experience will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Translator
A Translator converts written or spoken words from one language to another language.
See salaries and explore the career path for Translator
Interpreter
Interpreters help people who speak different languages communicate, either through spoken words or sign language.
See salaries and explore the career path for Interpreter
Language Teacher
A Language Teacher provides instruction and support to students in learning a foreign language.
See salaries and explore the career path for Language Teacher
Writer
Authors create books, articles, scripts, and other written works.
See salaries and explore the career path for Writer
Editor
Editors review, correct, and revise written material, including books, articles, and web content.
See salaries and explore the career path for Editor
Journalist
Journalists research, write, and report on news and current events.
See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist
Foreign Service Officer
Foreign Service Officers conduct diplomacy for the United States government.
See salaries and explore the career path for Foreign Service Officer
International Business Professional
International Business Professionals conduct business with companies and individuals from other countries.
See salaries and explore the career path for International Business Professional
Cultural Anthropologist
Cultural Anthropologists study the customs, beliefs, and social structures of human societies.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cultural Anthropologist
Sociologist
Sociologists study human society and social behavior.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sociologist
Historian
Historians study and write about the past.
See salaries and explore the career path for Historian
Political Scientist
Political Scientists study politics and government.
See salaries and explore the career path for Political Scientist
Economist
Economists study the production, distribution, and consumption of goods and services.
See salaries and explore the career path for Economist
Psychologist
Psychologists study the mind and behavior.
See salaries and explore the career path for Psychologist
Consultant
Consultants provide advice and guidance to businesses and organizations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Consultant

Reading list

We've selected 15 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: Cultural Experience.
Cover image
Crónica de la lengua española 2023-2024
Save
This authoritative reference grammar of Spanish, published by the Royal Spanish Academy, provides a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the language's grammar and usage. It is an essential resource for serious students and professionals.
(Español) Crónica de la lengua española 2023-2024 (NUEVAS...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Nunca lo hubiera dicho
Save
This comprehensive dictionary of Spanish, also published by the Royal Spanish Academy, is an invaluable resource for students and professionals alike. It provides definitions, usage examples, and etymologies for a vast number of words.
Nunca lo hubiera dicho
Paperback
Check
Nunca lo hubiera dicho
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Las cartas del Boom
Save
This masterpiece of Latin American literature must-read for students who want to experience the richness and beauty of the Spanish language. García Márquez's use of magical realism creates a captivating and immersive reading experience.
(Español) Las cartas del Boom / Boom Letters (Spanish Edition)
Paperback
$$
(Español) Las cartas del Boom (Spanish Edition)
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Gramática histórica del español
Save
Comprehensive reference grammar of Spanish, providing detailed explanations of all aspects of the language. It valuable resource for students who want to gain a deep understanding of Spanish grammar.
(Español) Gramática histórica del español: Edición actualizada
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Corrientes alternas. Antología de verso y prosa
Save
This influential essay by Octavio Paz explores the cultural and psychological identity of Mexico. Paz's insights into Mexican history, politics, and society are invaluable for students who want to understand the complexities of the country.
(Español) Corrientes alternas. Antología de verso y prosa...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Spanish For Dummies
Save
This comprehensive guide provides a thorough overview of Spanish grammar, vocabulary, and culture. It is an excellent resource for students who want to gain a solid foundation in the language and its cultural context.
Spanish For Dummies
Paperback
$$
Spanish For Dummies, Enhanced Edition
Kindle Edition with Audio/Video
$$
Cover image
Cien años de soledad 50 años después
Save
This haunting and evocative novel is considered one of the greatest works of Mexican literature. Rulfo's use of stream-of-consciousness and magical realism creates a unique and unforgettable reading experience.
(Español) Cien años de soledad 50 años después (Spanish...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
El ingenioso hidalgo Don Quijote de la Mancha. Tomo...
Save
This classic work of Spanish literature provides a rich source of authentic Spanish language and culture. Reading Don Quixote can help students improve their comprehension skills and gain insights into Spanish history and society.
(Español) El Ingenioso Hidalgo Don Quijote de La Mancha: Tomo...
Paperback
$$
El Ingenioso Hidalgo Don Quijote de la Mancha tomo...
Leather Bound
$$$
Cover image
Suenan tambores. Antología poética afrocolombiana
Save
This historical account of Mexico by Guillermo Prieto provides a comprehensive overview of the country's history, from pre-Columbian times to the mid-19th century. It valuable resource for students who want to gain a deeper understanding of Mexican culture and society.
(Español) Suenan tambores. Antología poética afrocolombiana....
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
A New Reference Grammar of Modern Spanish
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of Spanish grammar, with clear explanations and plenty of exercises. It good choice for students who want to solidify their understanding of the language's structure.
A New Reference Grammar of Modern Spanish...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Perla, la súper perrita
Save
This magical and feminist novel by Isabel Allende great choice for students who want to explore the cultural and social issues of Latin America. Allende's writing is both lyrical and engaging.
Perla la súper perrita (Spanish Edition)
Hardcover
$$
(Español) Perla la súper perrita (Spanish Edition)
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Mi negro pasado
Save
This enchanting novel by Laura Esquivel combines magical realism with traditional Mexican cuisine. The story follows the lives of three sisters and their relationships with food, family, and love.
(Español) Mi negro pasado (Spanish Edition)
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Verb Tenses,...
Save
Helps learners master the intricacies of Spanish verb tenses. While the course briefly introduces verb tenses, this book delves deeper into their usage and provides ample practice exercises, making it a valuable resource for students looking to improve their fluency.
Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Verb Tenses,...
Paperback
$$
Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Verb Tenses,...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
501 Spanish Verbs, Tenth Edition
Save
This reference book is an excellent resource for students who want to expand their vocabulary and improve their understanding of Spanish verb conjugations. It provides a comprehensive list of 501 verbs, along with their conjugations in all tenses.
501 Spanish Verbs, Tenth Edition
Paperback
Check
501 Spanish Verbs, Tenth Edition
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Easy Spanish Step-By-Step
Save
Good choice for beginners who want to learn the basics of Spanish grammar and vocabulary, and it can serve as a useful supplement to the course. It provides clear and concise explanations of grammar concepts, along with plenty of practice exercises.
Easy Spanish Step-By-Step
Paperback
$$
Advanced Spanish Step-by-Step: Master Accelerated...
Paperback
$$
Easy Spanish Step-By-Step
Kindle Edition
$
(Español) Advanced Spanish Step-by-Step: Master Accelerated...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Course image
Effort
4 weeks of study, 3-4 hours/week
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of California, Davis
Instructor
Dr. Robert Blake
Language
English
Transcripts
Español Français Deutsch Italiano العربية Pусский tiếng Việt
This course belongs to a collection called Learn Spanish: Basic Spanish Vocabulary. It's comprised of five courses:
  1. Spanish Vocabulary: Meeting People
  2. Spanish Vocabulary Project
  3. Spanish Vocabulary: Sports, Travel, and the Home
  4. Spanish Vocabulary: Careers and Social Events
  5. Spanish Vocabulary: Cultural Experience (viewing)
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Builds vocabulary on daily routines, which is core for basic conversations in Spanish
Develops conversational skills in expressing likes and dislikes
Provides hands-on practice opportunities through interactive activities and videos
Requires prior completion of the first course in this specialization
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