First graders will enjoy using technology to help reinforce new vocabulary words. There are a multitude of activities and games available online, free of charge, that will help students practice using the Spanish language. Students will be motivated to learn in order to advance through various levels or win particular games.
Give students a fun way to practice Spanish words related to numbers. Begin by dividing the class into small groups. Distribute a pair of dice to each group. Explain to students that they should take turns rolling the dice. After they roll, they should announce the number on each die by pointing to it and saying the number in Spanish. When students feel comfortable with this, they should also add the numbers together and announce the total in Spanish. This game can be played with other vocabulary words. For example, students could announce the month that goes along with the total. If they rolled a five and a two, they would announce "Siete," then say "Julio."
Help build the children's fluency skills with this fun lesson. Gather several children's Spanish songs on tape or CD. Display the words on a large screen. Divide the class in half and challenge each side with a singing contest. Begin by playing the songs several times to allow for some practice. Each child will naturally want to start reading in order to keep up with the songs. Show students how to make movements with their hands or bodies to go along with the songs. After the students have had plenty of time to practice, allow them to compete against each other to see which side is able to keep up with the songs.
Give students a chance to move around with this engaging activity. Write new Spanish vocabulary words on index cards. You will need enough index cards so that every student has one. Punch two holes at the top of each card. Create a necklace by stringing colorful yarn through the index cards and tying a knot. Ask students to form a line. Hang a necklace around each student's neck with the Spanish word facing out on the child's back. Tell students that they should walk around the room asking others to explain the word they are wearing. The game ends when every student is able to tell the teacher the word he is wearing.