So, you’ve decided to start learning Spanish… Great choice! But how do you start using the language from day one?
In this episode of the Speaking Spanish for Beginners podcast, you’ll learn the basic questions you can ask your tutor. Questions every Spanish student should know.
Plus, you’ll review essential classroom vocabulary for items you’ll use in your lessons, whether face‑to‑face or online.
¡Vamos!
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Basic Questions for Spanish Lessons
As a Spanish beginner, you’ll probably use these three requests all the time:
¿Qué significa + palabra?
What does [word] mean?
Use this when you hear a Spanish word but aren’t sure what it means.
¿Cómo se dice + palabra?
How do you say [word]?
Use this when you know the word in your language but want to learn the Spanish equivalent.
¿Puede repetir, por favor? Más despacio.
Can you repeat, please? Slower.
Perfect for those moments when your teacher is speaking rapid‑fire Spanish and you need them to slow down or rephrase.
And yes… always add por favor. Be nice.
In the video below, you’ll see all these questions used in context:
Spanish Classroom Vocabulary
What are “chair,” “desk,” or “board” en español?
Here’s some basic vocabulary you’ll find in almost any classroom 👇
el pupitre: school desk
la pizarra: board
la mochila: backpack
el cuaderno: notebook
el bolígrafo: pen
el lápiz: pencil
el libro: book
el diccionario: dictionary
el portátil: laptop
For online lessons, the virtual whiteboard is called pizarra virtual.
Need More Spanish Material?
Our podcast Speaking Spanish for Beginners covers all the essentials in its first season.
30 episodes to help you get started en español with confidence.
Available on all major listening apps.
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Marco Fierro — Your Latino Spanish Tutor
¡Hola! I’m an enthusiastic Spanish teacher passionate about making my language accessible to YOU.
When I’m not teaching, I love traveling and rocking out on my electric guitar.
Let’s have fun learning ESPAÑOL together. ¡Vamos!
