Spanish

Top Tips for Preparing for GCSE Spanish

General Preparation:

Know the exam format – Familiarise yourself with the structure of the exams.

Revise key vocabulary – Use Quizlet, Pink Sheets, Knowledge Organisers and Take 5

Quizzes to create flashcards or mind maps. Use them to test yourself regularly!

Practice grammar – Focus on tenses (present, past, future, conditional) and high

frequency vocabulary such as opinions, adjectives, time phrases, connectives etc...

Expose yourself to Spanish daily – Listen to Spanish music, podcasts, or watch Spanish

films with subtitles. This will help you develop your understanding.

Use past papers and mark schemes to understand question styles.

Listening Exam Tips:

• Tune in to different accents – Listen to Spanish speakers from different regions.

• Train your ear – Practice listening without subtitles, then check understanding.

• Write while listening – Jot down key words or phrases to help recall answers.

• Answer as fully as possible and in the correct language – check the instructions.

• Read the questions first – Predict the information and language which might come up

Reading Exam Tips:

• Skim and scan – Look for key words and cognates.

• Guess unfamiliar words – Use context to work out meanings.

• Answer as fully as possible and in the correct language – check the instructions.

• Practice translation – Work on translating short texts accurately.

Speaking Exam Tips:

• Learn your script for all three themes in preparation for the general conversation.

• Prepare key phrases – Learn set phrases for common topics.

• Use a range of tenses – Aim to include at least three tenses in your answers.

• Use your speaking booklet to practice role-plays and photo cards.

• Speak clearly and confidently – Don’t rush, and don’t panic if you make a mistake.

Writing Exam Tips:

• Plan before writing – Make a quick outline of your response.

• Use varied vocabulary to avoid repetitions.

• Check spelling and accents – Small mistakes can cost marks.

• Practice the extended writing tasks – Ensure you answer all parts of the question.

• Aim to develop your ideas – Use the 5 Ws (What, Where, Who, When and Why)

Final Tips:

• Stay organised – Make a revision timetable and stick to it.

• Revise little but often – avoid cramming!

• Practice under timed conditions.

• Stay positive and keep practicing to develop your confidence! You can do this!