Study Spanish language for free


(photo by  José A. used under terms of Creative Commons license.)
spain flagOur free Spanish lessons are an online adaptation of the Defense Language Institute Foreign Language Center's (DLIFLC) Spanish Headstart for Spain program.

This 100%  Free online Spanish language program includes 4 themes, 12 lessons, 24 dialogues, over 180 exercises & quizzes & around 8h of audio (MP3 format). 

The "Spanish Headstart for Spain" was originally tailored to military personnel and other eligible individuals who requires proficiency in Spanish for specific assignments or missions in Spain.

The program was developed in the 80s and it is designed to provide an intensive and focused language learning experience that equips participants with the linguistic skills necessary to communicate effectively in a Spanish-speaking environment. It caters mostly to beginners, aiming to enhance their language abilities within a relatively short timeframe.

The curriculum of the "Spanish Headstart for Spain program" at DLIFLC is comprehensive and immersive, encompassing various aspects of language acquisition such as grammar, vocabulary, pronunciation, listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. Emphasis is placed on practical language skills that are relevant to real-world scenarios encountered in military and diplomatic contexts.

Originally, in addition to classroom instruction, students had opportunities for cultural immersion activities, which might have included interactions with native speakers, field trips to local communities, and cultural workshops. These experiences did not only deepen students' understanding of the Spanish language but also foster cross-cultural competence and awareness.

Upon completion of the Spanish Headstart for Spain program, participants are equipped with the linguistic proficiency and cultural competency needed to engage effectively in Spanish-speaking environments.



Objectives of this spanish program:

While specific objectives are set forth for each theme, here is a more general statement of the overall skill levels expected after completing this course (indicative study time to complete the full course: 40-50 hours). 


1. Comprehension

 This course aims at providing the student with sufficient understanding of spoken Spanish to meet survival needs and travel requirements. He/She is to be able to understand the essential features of face-to-face speech in standard Spanish relating to basic needs such as food and drink, simple directions, shopping, transportation, money and time. It is to be kept in mind that even if the Spanish expressions in the materials are often repeated on the audio files, they are spoken at a nearly normal rate of speech. Therefore, when the students hear these expressions in real-life situations, they will have no problem in understanding them, because they have been exposed to the "real language" during their course.

2. Speaking. 

At the end of this course the student will be able to ask and answer questions on the topics to which she/he has been introduced. Thus, all students at this level should be able to make polite, simple conversation, ask for directions, order a meal, and make purchases and travel arrangements. Even though the student's speaking Vocabulary is inadequate for expressing more than the most elementary needs, and even though she/he makes frequent mistakes in pronunciation and grammar, she/he can be understood by a Spanish people. 

Course Content

(photo by  Smallest Forest used under terms of Creative Commons license.)

spanish course

The program is divided in 4 themes:

The 3 lessons in this theme begin with fundamental Spanish language skills, covering topics such as greetings, introductions, basic vocabulary, and common phrases used in everyday conversations.

The 4 lessons in this theme introduce essential vocabulary and phrases related to travel, transportation, and navigation. You'll learn words and expressions commonly used in airports, train stations, bus terminals, taxi services, and other transportation hubs.

The lessons cover common phrases and expressions used during shopping interactions, such as asking for assistance, inquiring about product details, requesting sizes or colors, and making purchases.You'll learn how to understand and discuss prices in Spanish, including numbers, currencies, and units of measurement commonly used in Spain. This includes practicing conversions and understanding discounts or sales. The course introduces you to various types of stores and markets commonly found in Spain, including supermarkets, department stores, boutiques, specialty shops, and local markets. You'll learn how to navigate these different shopping environments and interact with staff and vendors.

These lessons will be helpful to learn some basic Spanish phrases to navigate menus and interact with waiters and waitresses. Here are a few essential phrases:

  • Greetings:
    • "Hola" - Hello
    • "Buenos días" - Good morning
    • "Buenas tardes" - Good afternoon
    • "Buenas noches" - Good evening/night
  • Ordering:
    • "¿Puedo ver el menú, por favor?" - Can I see the menu, please?
    • "Quisiera..." - I would like...
    • "¿Qué recomienda usted?" - What do you recommend?
    • "¿Tiene opciones vegetarianas/veganas?" - Do you have vegetarian/vegan options?
    • "Para beber, ..." - To drink, ...
    • "Para comer, ..." - To eat, ...
  • Courtesy:
    • "Por favor" - Please
    • "Gracias" - Thank you
    • "De nada" - You're welcome
    • "Perdón" or "Disculpe" - Excuse me
  • Asking for the Check:
    • "La cuenta, por favor" - The check, please
  • Basic Food Vocabulary:
    • "Café" - Coffee
    • "Agua" - Water
    • "Vino" - Wine
    • "Pan" - Bread
    • "Pollo" - Chicken
    • "Pescado" - Fish
    • "Carne" - Meat
    • "Verduras" - Vegetables
    • "Ensalada" - Salad
    • "Postre" - Dessert

Practicing these phrases beforehand can make your dining experience in Spain smoother and more enjoyable! And taking a language course is a fantastic way to deepen your understanding and proficiency. Enjoy your culinary adventures in Spain!

Course Design

(photo by  Nacho Rascón used under terms of Creative Commons license.)
libros

1. Sentence patterns and Vocabulary.

 For the conversations and the exercises of this course, we have selected the most frequently used sentence patterns, words and expressions, and the least complicated phrases and sentences. 

 2. Grammar.

 Grammar explanations in the Headstart program are minimal. Unless specifically requested by the students, instructors should avoid grammar explanations. 

 3. Instructional modes.

 One of the advantages of the Spanish Headstart for Spain program is that the materials can be used in a completely self-instructional mode without an instructor. The students work on their own with the website and take the Self-evaluation Quiz at the end of each unit whenever they are ready.

 

The program is designed for approximately 40-50 hours of study which, if possible, should be spread over at least two weeks (20-25 hours per week).

Reasons to learn spanish with the "Headstart for Spain" program

Learning Spanish with the "Headstart for Spain" program offers a multitude of benefits:

  1. Cultural Immersion: Immerse yourself in the rich culture of Spain. Learning the language opens doors to understanding Spanish literature, music, art, and cuisine on a deeper level.

  2. Career Opportunities: Spanish is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. Proficiency in Spanish can enhance your career prospects, especially if you're interested in fields like international business, tourism, diplomacy, or translation.

  3. Travel: Spain is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant cities, and historic landmarks. Speaking Spanish will enrich your travel experiences, allowing you to communicate with locals and navigate more easily.

  4. Personal Growth: Learning a new language challenges your brain and improves cognitive abilities like problem-solving and multitasking. It also boosts confidence and adaptability as you step out of your comfort zone to communicate in Spanish.

  5. Networking: Connect with a global community of Spanish speakers. Whether you're communicating with native speakers or fellow learners, learning Spanish opens up opportunities for meaningful connections and friendships.

  6. Educational Opportunities: Spain is home to prestigious universities and academic programs. Learning Spanish with the Headstart for Spain program could pave the way for future educational pursuits in Spain or other Spanish-speaking countries.

  7. Global Perspective: Understanding Spanish gives you insight into diverse perspectives and cultures beyond your own. It fosters empathy, tolerance, and appreciation for the global community.

Overall, the Headstart for Spain program offers a structured and immersive approach to learning Spanish, providing you with valuable skills and experiences that extend far beyond language proficiency.