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Spanish Reflexive Verbs Lesson Plans

Reflexive verbs are so much fun to teach and learn! There are many phases to learning the application of reflexive verbs in Spanish, and even before their application, in understanding the multi-faceted concept in general. While English speakers can simply say “I’m brushing my teeth”, in Spanish the speaker must use an extra word to demonstrate that the action occurs to the subject himself. This extra word is called the reflexive pronoun. Below is a chart of the reflexive pronouns.



SingularPlural
menos
teos
sese

Student Activities for Spanish Reflexive Verbs



To conjugate a regular reflexive verb like lavarse into present tense, first replace the se with the correct reflexive pronoun and put it at the front. Then, you will be left with lavar, which is conjugated as it normally would be. For example, lavarse in the present tense yo form is me lavo.

To use an infinitive reflexive verb only change the se at the end to reflect the subject. For example, the infinitive to match the yo form done above would be lavarme.

Practicing and learning reflexive verbs takes time, patience, and a methodical approach. Each of the storyboard exercises included in this lesson targets a different aspect of the learning process, be it associating reflexive verbs with appropriate vocabulary, understanding the reflexive concept, using reflexive infinitives, conjugating reflexives, or synthesizing all of the above into a narrative.


How Tos about Practicing Spanish Reflexive Verbs

1

Make reflexive verbs memorable with interactive classroom games

Engage students by introducing fun, movement-based activities that reinforce reflexive verbs. Games like charades, role-play, or matching cards help learners internalize reflexive pronouns and verb forms while staying active and collaborative.

2

Choose a reflexive verb focus for each game session

Select one or two target verbs to keep practice specific and manageable. Limiting the scope allows students to master each verb and pronoun combination before moving on, building confidence and accuracy.

3

Prepare game materials using student-friendly visuals

Create flashcards with images and the Spanish verb, or use props for role-play. Visual aids help students connect meaning with language and make each activity more engaging and accessible.

4

Assign roles for active participation

Let students take turns acting out verbs, guessing meanings, or matching pronouns. Rotation ensures everyone practices and offers chances for peer support and gentle correction.

5

Reflect and reinforce with a quick group review

with a short discussion or quiz. Review pronoun use and verb forms to solidify learning and celebrate progress together.

Frequently Asked Questions about Practicing Spanish Reflexive Verbs

What are Spanish reflexive verbs and how do they differ from regular verbs?

Spanish reflexive verbs describe actions a person does to themselves, using reflexive pronouns like me, te, and se. Unlike regular verbs, reflexive verbs show that the subject and object are the same. For example, "lavarse" means "to wash oneself."

How do you conjugate reflexive verbs in Spanish for different subjects?

To conjugate reflexive verbs, first choose the correct reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nos, os), place it before the verb, then conjugate the verb as usual. For example: "yo me lavo" (I wash myself), "ellos se lavan" (they wash themselves).

What are some examples of common Spanish reflexive verbs used in daily routines?

Common Spanish reflexive verbs include levantarse (to get up), ducharse (to shower), cepillarse (to brush), vestirse (to get dressed), and acostarse (to go to bed). These are often used to describe daily habits.

What is the best way to teach Spanish reflexive verbs to K–12 students?

Storyboard activities and visual exercises are effective for teaching reflexive verbs. Use charts, real-life scenarios, and encourage students to create sentences about their routines to reinforce learning and understanding.

How do reflexive pronouns work with infinitive verbs in Spanish?

With infinitive reflexive verbs, attach the reflexive pronoun to the end of the verb to match the subject. For example, "lavarme" (to wash myself), "levantarse" (to get up). This form is used after certain verbs or expressions.

Image Attributions
  • Brown Bath Towel • Program Executive Office Soldier • License Attribution (http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0/)
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