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Spanish Vocabulary

Meeting People

Dr. Robert Blake

¡Hola! ¿Como Estas? In this entry level course, you will take the first step toward exploring the foundations of Spanish grammar and pronunciation, and will begin to build a working vocabulary of common Spanish words and expressions. You will be able to talk about yourself, your family and friends in the present tense, and begin to explore the cultural context of the Spanish-speaking world through a series of videos and interactive activities, including speaking, reading and writing exercises. The adventure begins here, so ¡vámanos!

Read more

¡Hola! ¿Como Estas? In this entry level course, you will take the first step toward exploring the foundations of Spanish grammar and pronunciation, and will begin to build a working vocabulary of common Spanish words and expressions. You will be able to talk about yourself, your family and friends in the present tense, and begin to explore the cultural context of the Spanish-speaking world through a series of videos and interactive activities, including speaking, reading and writing exercises. The adventure begins here, so ¡vámanos!

What you'll learn

  • Pronounce Spanish vowel and consonant sounds
  • Practice basic vocabulary related to family, friends, the body, places, and weather
  • Apply subject pronoun grammar rules to Spanish communication and count from 1-10 in Spanish
  • Conjugate verbs that end in -ar and the verbs tener and ser in present tense
  • Count up to 100 in Spanish
  • Conjugate regular verbs that end in -ar, -er, and -ir in present tense
  • Distinguish between the use of the verbs ser and estar
  • Conjugate irregular present tense verbs
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What's inside

Learning objectives

  • Pronounce spanish vowel and consonant sounds
  • Practice basic vocabulary related to family, friends, the body, places, and weather
  • Apply subject pronoun grammar rules to spanish communication and count from 1-10 in spanish
  • Conjugate verbs that end in -ar and the verbs tener and ser in present tense
  • Count up to 100 in spanish
  • Conjugate regular verbs that end in -ar, -er, and -ir in present tense
  • Distinguish between the use of the verbs ser and estar
  • Conjugate irregular present tense verbs

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Taught by Dr. Robert Blake, a seasoned instructor in Spanish
Suitable for a beginner with no prior knowledge of Spanish
Provides a solid foundation with basic vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation
Emphasizes practical communication with a focus on present tense
Embraces interactive learning through speaking, reading, and writing exercises
Covers cultural aspects of the Spanish-speaking world

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Reviews summary

Foundational spanish for beginners

According to students, this course is an excellent starting point for absolute beginners in Spanish. Learners widely praise the clear explanations, especially for complex grammar like ser vs. estar, and the practical, relevant vocabulary for meeting people. Many found the short, digestible lessons and engaging interactive activities highly effective for reinforcing learning. While providing a solid foundational understanding of grammar and pronunciation, some suggest that learners might need additional resources for extensive speaking practice or if they have any prior Spanish knowledge, as the pace is ideal for newcomers.
The course focuses on highly relevant vocabulary and provides helpful guides for pronunciation.
"The vocabulary sections were practical for 'meeting people' as advertised."
"I found the pronunciation guides especially useful."
"The vocabulary lessons were excellent and highly relevant. I appreciated the focus on practical phrases..."
Reviewers consistently highlight the clarity of grammar instruction, making complex topics understandable.
"The instructor's explanations are very clear, and the exercises really helped reinforce the grammar."
"I've tried a few language apps, but this course actually made grammar click. The `ser` vs `estar` explanation was particularly clear."
"I found the content builds up nicely, and the explanations are easy to follow for new concepts."
The course is highly recommended for those with no prior Spanish experience, offering a perfect pace.
"This course is fantastic for absolute beginners! I had no prior Spanish experience and feel like I learned so much."
"Excellent course for starting out! The pace is perfect for someone new to the language."
"Perfect for learning the fundamentals... without being overwhelming."
"I loved this course! It's super accessible for beginners and teaches you truly useful phrases."
Students with prior Spanish knowledge may find the course's slow pace unengaging or repetitive.
"Decent for a beginner, but if you have any prior knowledge, it might feel too slow."
"I struggled with the pace; it felt very basic for too long."
"Not for intermediate learners, definitely strictly for absolute beginners."
While strong in foundations, the course may require additional resources for advanced conversational practice.
"I wished for more interactive speaking practice."
"I do think it could benefit from more advanced speaking opportunities or peer interaction..."
"My only critique is that I needed to find external resources for more intensive practice, especially for speaking."

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: Meeting People with these activities:
Review Spanish alphabet and pronunciation
Helps ground foundational skills and build confidence for learning Spanish.
Show steps
  • Practice pronouncing Spanish vowels and consonants
  • Review the Spanish alphabet and its spelling rules
Review High School Spanish
Builds a solid foundation in Spanish and refreshes skills learned earlier on.
Browse courses on Spanish Pronunciation
Show steps
  • Review Spanish Pronunciation
  • Review Basic Spanish Grammar
  • Review Common Spanish Vocabulary
Spanish Vocabulary Practice
Expands vocabulary and improves fluency.
Show steps
  • Review New Spanish Vocabulary
  • Create Flashcards for Spanish Vocabulary Practice
14 other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 17 activities
Practice Spanish Pronunciation Exercises
Refines pronunciation and builds confidence in speaking Spanish.
Show steps
  • Listen to Spanish Pronunciation Examples
  • Repeat and Practice Pronunciation Exercises
Practice Spanish pronunciation with a language learning app
Reinforces basic vocabulary and grammar rules by engaging in repetitive exercises.
Show steps
  • Download a language learning app that focuses on Spanish pronunciation.
  • Follow the instructions in the app to practice pronouncing vowels and consonants.
  • Practice regularly for at least 10 minutes each day.
Create a Spanish vocabulary list
Strengthens vocabulary retention by engaging in active recall and organization.
Browse courses on Spanish Vocabulary
Show steps
  • Identify new vocabulary words encountered in lessons
  • Define the words and write down translations
  • Create flashcards or use a language learning app to practice the vocabulary
Online Spanish Grammar Exercises
Strengthens understanding of Spanish grammar and enhances accuracy.
Show steps
  • Complete Online Spanish Grammar Exercises
Watch Spanish language videos with subtitles
Enhances listening comprehension and vocabulary acquisition by exposing learners to authentic Spanish content.
Show steps
  • Find Spanish language videos that interest you, such as news, documentaries, or TV shows.
  • Enable subtitles in Spanish to follow along and improve your understanding.
  • Make note of new words and phrases you hear and look up their meanings.
Practice conjugating Spanish verbs
Provides opportunities to put new vocabulary and grammar concepts into practice, enhancing retention.
Show steps
  • Identify the correct form of the verb based on the subject pronoun and tense
  • Practice conjugating different verbs in various tenses, including present, past, and future
Watch videos on Spanish grammar and culture
Provides additional context and examples, fostering a deeper understanding of the language and its cultural nuances.
Browse courses on Spanish Grammar
Show steps
  • Find videos that cover specific grammar concepts or cultural topics
  • Take notes on key points and new vocabulary
  • Discuss the videos with other students or the instructor
Conjugate Spanish Verbs Practice
Improves understanding of Spanish verb conjugation and enhances fluency.
Show steps
  • Review Spanish Verb Conjugation Rules
  • Practice Conjugating Spanish Verbs
Join a Spanish language conversation group
Provides opportunities for practicing spoken Spanish and receiving feedback from others.
Show steps
  • Look for Spanish language conversation groups in your area or online.
  • Attend meetings regularly and participate in conversations.
  • Be open to constructive criticism and ask for feedback to improve your speaking skills.
Organize notes and course materials
Improves organization and recall by creating a cohesive and comprehensive study resource.
Show steps
  • Gather all notes, handouts, and other materials from class
  • Organize the materials into folders or sections
  • Highlight or summarize key concepts and vocabulary
  • Review the organized materials regularly
Write a Spanish Journal
Encourages self-expression and enhances writing skills in Spanish.
Show steps
  • Choose a Topic for Your Spanish Journal
  • Write Journal Entries in Spanish
Practice speaking Spanish with a partner
Provides a supportive and interactive environment to practice speaking skills and gain confidence in using Spanish.
Show steps
  • Find a language partner or join a conversation group
  • Set up regular practice sessions
  • Discuss topics of interest, role-play conversations, and practice pronunciation
Spanish Conversation Practice
Provides opportunities to practice speaking Spanish and receive feedback.
Show steps
  • Find a Spanish Conversation Partner
  • Schedule Regular Conversation Practice Sessions
Read a Spanish language novel
Offers exposure to authentic Spanish literature, expanding vocabulary and cultural understanding.
View Don Quixote (Gothic Fantasy) on Amazon
Show steps
  • Select a novel that aligns with your interests and level
  • Read a few chapters at a time
  • Look up unfamiliar words and phrases
  • Summarize the chapters and discuss them with others

Career center

Learners who complete Spanish Vocabulary: Meeting People will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Spanish Teacher
Spanish teachers teach students the Spanish language and culture. They may work in a variety of settings, including public schools, private schools, and language schools. In their work, they often teach beginner-level students how to pronounce Spanish vowels and consonant sounds, practice basic vocabulary related to family and friends, and apply subject pronoun grammar rules to Spanish communication. This course can help aspiring Spanish teachers build a strong foundation in the basics of Spanish grammar and pronunciation, which will be essential for their success in the classroom.
See salaries and explore the career path for Spanish Teacher
Foreign Language Interpreter
Foreign language interpreters provide oral interpretation between two languages. They may work in a variety of settings, including government agencies, businesses, and healthcare facilities. In their work, they often interpret conversations between people who do not speak the same language. This course can help aspiring foreign language interpreters develop the skills they need to pronounce Spanish clearly and accurately, understand spoken Spanish, and translate it into English in a way that is both accurate and culturally appropriate.
See salaries and explore the career path for Foreign Language Interpreter
Spanish Translator
Spanish translators translate written text from Spanish to English and vice versa. They may work in a variety of settings, including publishing houses, government agencies, and businesses. In their work, they often translate a variety of documents, including books, articles, and marketing materials. This course can help aspiring Spanish translators develop the skills they need to read and write Spanish fluently, understand the nuances of both Spanish and English grammar, and translate Spanish text into English in a way that is both accurate and culturally appropriate.
See salaries and explore the career path for Spanish Translator
Customer Service Specialist
Customer service specialists provide customer service to customers over the phone, email, or chat. They may work in a variety of industries, including retail, hospitality, and telecommunications. In their work, they often help customers with a variety of issues, including resolving complaints, answering questions, and providing information about products and services. This course can help aspiring customer service specialists develop the communication skills they need to interact with customers in a professional and helpful manner, as well as the ability to understand and respond to customer inquiries in Spanish.
See salaries and explore the career path for Customer Service Specialist
Sales Representative
Sales representatives sell products or services to customers. They may work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, retail, and software. In their work, they often meet with customers to discuss their needs, present their products or services, and close deals. This course can help aspiring sales representatives develop the communication skills they need to build relationships with customers, persuade them to buy products or services, and close deals.
See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Representative
Business Development Manager
Business development managers identify and develop new business opportunities for their companies. They may work in a variety of industries, including technology, healthcare, and manufacturing. In their work, they often research new markets, identify potential customers, and develop strategies to grow their companies' businesses. This course can help aspiring business development managers develop the communication skills they need to build relationships with potential customers, understand their needs, and persuade them to do business with their companies.
See salaries and explore the career path for Business Development Manager
Marketing Manager
Marketing managers develop and implement marketing campaigns to promote their companies' products or services. They may work in a variety of industries, including retail, manufacturing, and healthcare. In their work, they often conduct market research, develop marketing strategies, and create marketing materials. This course can help aspiring marketing managers develop the communication skills they need to create effective marketing campaigns, as well as the ability to understand and respond to customer feedback.
See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager
Project Manager
Project managers plan, execute, and close projects. They may work in a variety of industries, including construction, software, and manufacturing. In their work, they often lead teams of people, manage budgets, and ensure that projects are completed on time and within budget. This course can help aspiring project managers develop the communication skills they need to lead teams, motivate people, and resolve conflicts, as well as the ability to understand and respond to project stakeholders.
See salaries and explore the career path for Project Manager
Operations Manager
Operations managers oversee the day-to-day operations of their companies. They may work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, retail, and healthcare. In their work, they often manage budgets, supervise employees, and ensure that their companies' operations run smoothly. This course can help aspiring operations managers develop the communication skills they need to lead teams, motivate people, and resolve conflicts, as well as the ability to understand and respond to customer feedback.
See salaries and explore the career path for Operations Manager
Human Resources Manager
Human resources managers oversee the human resources functions of their companies. They may work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, retail, and healthcare. In their work, they often recruit and hire employees, manage employee benefits, and develop employee training programs. This course can help aspiring human resources managers develop the communication skills they need to build relationships with employees, understand their needs, and resolve conflicts, as well as the ability to understand and respond to employment laws.
See salaries and explore the career path for Human Resources Manager
Financial Analyst
Financial analysts provide financial advice to individuals and organizations. They may work in a variety of industries, including banking, investment management, and insurance. In their work, they often analyze financial data, develop financial models, and make investment recommendations. This course can help aspiring financial analysts develop the communication skills they need to explain financial concepts to clients and colleagues, as well as the ability to understand and respond to financial news.
See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst
Management Consultant
Management consultants provide advice to businesses on how to improve their operations. They may work in a variety of industries, including manufacturing, retail, and healthcare. In their work, they often analyze business processes, identify areas for improvement, and develop recommendations for change. This course can help aspiring management consultants develop the communication skills they need to build relationships with clients, understand their needs, and persuade them to implement their recommendations.
See salaries and explore the career path for Management Consultant
Entrepreneur
Entrepreneurs start and run their own businesses. They may work in a variety of industries, including technology, retail, and manufacturing. In their work, they often develop business plans, raise capital, and manage their businesses on a day-to-day basis. This course can help aspiring entrepreneurs develop the communication skills they need to build relationships with customers, investors, and employees, as well as the ability to understand and respond to market demand.
See salaries and explore the career path for Entrepreneur
Speech Therapist
Speech therapists help people with speech and language disorders. They may work in a variety of settings, including schools, hospitals, and clinics. In their work, they often assess speech and language disorders, develop treatment plans, and provide therapy to help people improve their communication skills. This course may be useful for aspiring speech therapists who want to learn more about the Spanish language and how to communicate with Spanish-speaking clients.
See salaries and explore the career path for Speech Therapist
Occupational Therapist
Occupational therapists help people with disabilities improve their ability to perform everyday tasks. They may work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, schools, and clinics. In their work, they often assess patients' needs, develop treatment plans, and provide therapy to help them improve their physical, cognitive, and social skills. This course may be useful for aspiring occupational therapists who want to learn more about the Spanish language and how to communicate with Spanish-speaking clients.
See salaries and explore the career path for Occupational Therapist

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: Meeting People.
Cover image
El nacimiento de los corresponsales de guerra.
Save
This dictionary is the official dictionary of the Spanish language. It comprehensive dictionary that includes all the words in the Spanish language, as well as their definitions and usage notes. It good resource for students who want to improve their vocabulary and their understanding of Spanish grammar.
(Español) El nacimiento de los corresponsales de guerra
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Diccionario del español actual
Save
This dictionary popular choice for Spanish learners. It comprehensive dictionary that includes all the words in the Spanish language, as well as their definitions and usage notes. It good resource for students who want to improve their vocabulary and their understanding of Spanish grammar.
Diccionario del español actual
Paperback
Check
Diccionario del español actual
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Complete Spanish Step-by-Step, Premium Second...
Save
Widely-used textbook for beginners in Spanish. It's a good starting point for learning the basics of Spanish grammar and vocabulary.
Complete Spanish Step-by-Step, Premium Second...
Paperback
$$
(Español) Complete Spanish Step-by-Step, Premium Second...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Life on the Hyphen
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of Spanish grammar.
Life on the Hyphen: The Cuban-American Way, Revised...
Paperback
$$
Life on the Hyphen: The Cuban-American Way
Paperback
$$
Life on the Hyphen: The Cuban-American Way, Revised...
Unknown Binding
$$$
Life on the Hyphen: The Cuban-American Way (Joe R....
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
501 Spanish Verbs, Tenth Edition
Save
Provides a comprehensive list of Spanish verbs.
501 Spanish Verbs, Tenth Edition
Paperback
Check
501 Spanish Verbs, Tenth Edition
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Trask's Historical Linguistics
Save
Provides a clear and concise overview of Spanish grammar.
Trask's Historical Linguistics
Paperback
Check
Trask's Historical Linguistics
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
The Myths of the Popol Vuh in Cosmology, Art, and...
Save
This dictionary good choice for beginners who want to learn Spanish. It bilingual dictionary that includes the most common words in the Spanish and English languages. It good resource for students who want to build their vocabulary quickly.
The Myths of the Popol Vuh in Cosmology, Art, and...
Paperback
$$
The Myths of the Popol Vuh in Cosmology, Art, and...
Kindle Edition
$$
Cover image
Short Stories in Spanish for Beginners Volume 2
Save
Contains short stories in Spanish for beginners.
Short Stories in Spanish for Beginners Volume 2
Paperback
Check
Short Stories in Spanish for Beginners Volume 2
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Neologismos del español actual
Save
This dictionary good choice for beginners who want to learn Spanish. It concise dictionary that includes the most common words in the Spanish language. It good resource for students who want to build their vocabulary quickly.
Neologismos del español actual
Paperback
Check
Neologismos del español actual
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Lonely Planet Mexican Spanish Phrasebook and...
Save
This phrasebook contains essential phrases for travelers in Spanish-speaking countries.
Lonely Planet Mexican Spanish Phrasebook &...
Paperback
$$
Cover image
Spanish-English Bilingual Visual Dictionary
Save
This visual dictionary contains images and translations of everyday objects.
Spanish-English Bilingual Visual Dictionary
Paperback
Check
Spanish-English Bilingual Visual Dictionary
Kindle Edition
Check
Cover image
Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Verb Tenses,...
Save
Contains exercises and activities to provide additional practice for Spanish learners.
Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Verb Tenses,...
Paperback
$$
Practice Makes Perfect: Spanish Verb Tenses,...
Kindle Edition
$
Cover image
Complete Spanish Step-by-Step, Premium Second...
Save
Popular choice for beginners who want to learn Spanish quickly and easily. It uses a step-by-step approach that makes learning Spanish grammar and vocabulary manageable. It good resource for students who want to get a basic understanding of Spanish quickly.
Complete Spanish Step-by-Step, Premium Second...
Paperback
$$
(Español) Complete Spanish Step-by-Step, Premium Second...
Kindle Edition
$$

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Course image
Effort
3 to 4 hours per week for 3 weeks
Level
Elementary
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
Taught by Dr. Robert Blake, a seasoned instructor in Spanish
Suitable for a beginner with no prior knowledge of Spanish
Provides a solid foundation with basic vocabulary, grammar, and pronunciation
Emphasizes practical communication with a focus on present tense
Embraces interactive learning through speaking, reading, and writing exercises
Covers cultural aspects of the Spanish-speaking world
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