Spanish Phrase Picture Dictionary

Teaching Theme of the Week

from Education World®

Students create a picture dictionary of common English phrases translated into Spanish.

Subjects: Arts & Humanities 

Grade Levels: K-2, 3-5 

Objectives
Students will

• learn Spanish words for common English phrases, and
• draw pictures illustrating common phrases.

Keywords

Spanish, phrase, picture, dictionary, English, translate, language, foreign language

Materials Needed

• teacher-selected phrases from an English-Spanish dictionary, a library source, or a web tool such as WorldLingo Online Translator  or WordReference.com 
• index cards (any size)
• construction paper
• markers or crayons

Procedure

1. Prior to the lesson, write common English phrases (for example, "Good morning," "Thank you") on index cards. Write the Spanish translations under each phrase.
2. Write one or two of the phrases from the cards on the chalkboard. Have students say each phrase in English and Spanish.
3. Divide the class into pairs. Distribute one index card with a phrase to each pair of students. Read the phrase to the pair of students.
4. Tell students in each pair that they are to draw a picture to illustrate the phrase. Hand out drawing materials, and encourage students to work together to brainstorm ideas.
5. After primary students have completed the illustrations, write the English phrase and Spanish translation on each illustration. For elementary students, have students in each pair copy the English and Spanish phrases on their illustration.
6. Compile the illustrations. Have students design a cover illustration for their dictionary.

Assessment
Evaluate students' illustrations and abilities to work together in small groups.