Vocabulary and audio

The following pages will contain a combination of vocabulary and audio clips for pronunciation. Depending on your level of Spanish, you might not need to listen to the audio clips if you are already familiar with these words. Use them as you need them, they are there to support students with various needs.

Levels of proficiency

There are 6 levels of language proficiency that are recognized by the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR): beginner (A1 and A2), intermediate (B1 and B2), and advanced (C1 and C2). This class is best suited for those with at least a B1 (lower intermediate) level of Spanish proficiency. Those with a B1 level of proficiency are able to express themselves on familiar topics related to everyday life. They can understand the main points of clear standard speech and are able to communicate in a clear and simple way. They may still struggle with grammer, finding the correct words to express themselves, or may have to pause to mentally plan the rest of their sentence. If you are below a B1 level of proficiency, I recommend that you set up some classes with a tutor to work your way up to B1 before beginning this course.

Dialects

This lesson mostly contains words and phrases that are from the Mexican dialect of Spanish, as that is what I am most familiar with. It is also likely influenced by my experiences as a heritage Spanish-Speaker who was born in the United States and raised by first generation Mexican immigrants. You are encouraged to substitute words in your dialect of Spanish and adapt to your culture.

Flexibility

The way that Spanish is spoken is shaped by country of origin, region, dialect, SES, etc. Please practice flexibility when speaking Spanish with your patients. If your patient doesn't understand what you are saying, find other ways to describe or explain what you are trying to communicate. You are not expected, nor is it recommended, to speak perfect Spanish. I recommend that you listen to your patient and communicate in a way that will make them feel most comfortable. Sometimes that means code-switching (switching between English and Spanish), using slang or colloquialisms, or using less advanced vocabulary. The vocabulary in these lessons are meant to give you options so that you are able to express yourself confidently in your sessions. They are not meant to be the only way that you can communicate.

Conflicts of interest

We have no conflicts of interest to disclose.