This Spanish video supports teachers in leading a lesson that develops children’s confidence in translating Spanish sentences independently. Pupils explore sentences describing landmarks found in ancient Maya cities and are challenged to make plausible guesses for unknown words without using bilingual dictionaries. The focus is on using context, identifying cognates, and applying knowledge of grammar to support comprehension. The example sentence provided in the video models how to work systematically through word classes, spot familiar vocabulary, and rephrase sentences when literal translations don’t sound natural.

This video is part of Kapow Primary’s Spanish scheme of work – grammar. It equips teachers with strategies to explicitly teach and reinforce language detective skills, helping pupils grow in independence when faced with unfamiliar vocabulary. It offers modelling ideas and opportunities for whole-class discussion, guiding children to consider grammar, sentence structure, and meaning when translating. The lesson helps embed key language learning strategies and contributes to building confident and resilient language learners.

Spanish, Upper key stage 2, Year 6, Unit 6: Maya city treasure hunt, Lesson 1: Cities of the Ancient Maya