10 Tips for Doing Homework in Spanish
Ainsworth Elementary School
Homework is given in Spanish in our immersion program because it is an important part of the curriculum,
reinforcing the vocabulary and concepts learned in class. It teaches students how to think and learn in Spanish.
Sometimes Spanish homework can be intimidating for students (and their parents!) Consider it a chance to model
problem solving for your student! We hope you find the following tips helpful.
Tip #1
Buy a Spanish-English/English-Spanish dictionary and start a Spanish resource center in your home. Put it in a
convenient place. You can start with a single dictionary, but eventually your student will need more resources such
as a verb book, thesaurus, and Spanish-only dictionary, especially in middle school.
Tip #2
Resist the temptation to translate for your student or to provide them with answers. Our goal as parents is to
help our children become independent Spanish learners. If you start this process when they are young it will
be easier on them and you — because the Spanish doesn't get any easier as they get older!
Tip #3
Sit down with your student when they begin their homework, signaling to them that you believe their homework (and
progress in Spanish) is important. Often students just need a little extra help to get started.
Tip #4
Ask your student what they know about the homework. Did they receive any materials in class or learn any vocabulary
in class that might help with the homework? They may have something tucked in their folder or binder that might help.
Tip #5
If the homework involves research and they have to translate the information into Spanish, encourage your child
to translate the idea of the whole sentence. Do not translate word by word.
Tip #6
Still stuck? Have your student consult with a Spanish-speaking friend or relative. Try to find a Spanish languagelearner "buddy" to support your student. Or, have your student call a classmate whose Spanish skills they respect
for help.
Tip #7
Stay in touch with your children's teachers. Don't be afraid to contact the teacher if you and your child don't
understand an assignment or if your child is having trouble. Our wonderful teachers are glad to help!
Tip #8
Encourage your child to read for pleasure in Spanish. Consult your child's teacher for an appropriate reading level.
When reading, they should try to use the context to figure out what new words mean. Use the
Multnomah County Library and Ainsworth library to find great Spanish books!
Tip #9
Greet your student with an hola! Or te amo. Using a little Spanish at home can go a long way toward letting your
student know how you feel about their second language learning.
Tip #10
Have a great attitude! Be positive! Celebrate their achievements and let them know how wonderful you think their
Spanish learning is!