Activity Overview
In Spanish, there are many situations in which infinitives must be used. Recognizing these is often difficult for learners, and when compiled with a reflexive verb, students often find the topic even more challenging. This simple storyboard exercise is meant to help students practice these instances of infinitive use by having them create original examples of each in conjunction with a reflexive verb.
Below is a list of common terms with which infinitives must be used if a verb is placed after them:
| Infinitive | Ud./Él/Ella |
|---|---|
| Después de | After |
| Antes de | Before |
| Tener que | To have to |
| Ir a | To be going to |
| Para | In order to |
| Acabar de | To have just |
The above examples must be followed by infinitives (if they are followed by verbs), but with reflexive verbs, the student must attend to the reflexive pronoun in addition. Thus, the student must practice using the appropriate reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nos, os, se) even with infinitives.
Have students create a grid storyboard, labeling the first column according to the infinitive situation they will demonstrate to the right. In the second column, students should provide an original sentence that demonstrates the infinitive example with a reflexive. It might be helpful for students to also demonstrate the change that occurs with the reflexive pronoun in the first column as shown in the storyboard example below.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Lesson Plan Reference
Activity Overview
In Spanish, there are many situations in which infinitives must be used. Recognizing these is often difficult for learners, and when compiled with a reflexive verb, students often find the topic even more challenging. This simple storyboard exercise is meant to help students practice these instances of infinitive use by having them create original examples of each in conjunction with a reflexive verb.
Below is a list of common terms with which infinitives must be used if a verb is placed after them:
| Infinitive | Ud./Él/Ella |
|---|---|
| Después de | After |
| Antes de | Before |
| Tener que | To have to |
| Ir a | To be going to |
| Para | In order to |
| Acabar de | To have just |
The above examples must be followed by infinitives (if they are followed by verbs), but with reflexive verbs, the student must attend to the reflexive pronoun in addition. Thus, the student must practice using the appropriate reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nos, os, se) even with infinitives.
Have students create a grid storyboard, labeling the first column according to the infinitive situation they will demonstrate to the right. In the second column, students should provide an original sentence that demonstrates the infinitive example with a reflexive. It might be helpful for students to also demonstrate the change that occurs with the reflexive pronoun in the first column as shown in the storyboard example below.
Template and Class Instructions
(These instructions are completely customizable. After clicking "Copy Activity", update the instructions on the Edit Tab of the assignment.)
Lesson Plan Reference
How Tos about Spanish Reflexive Verbs and Infinitives
How to introduce Spanish reflexive infinitives with engaging real-life scenarios
Start by connecting reflexive verb infinitives to everyday routines your students know, such as getting ready for school or bedtime. Making it relatable helps students see the practical use and remember the forms!
Provide clear examples using students’ daily routines
Ask students to list their morning or evening routines in English, then guide them to translate each activity into Spanish using reflexive verbs with infinitives. Highlight the correct placement of reflexive pronouns for each example.
Model sentence frames for common expressions
Give students sentence starters such as ‘Antes de’ or ‘Después de’ and have them complete the sentences with reflexive infinitives, like ‘Antes de ducharme’. Model a few aloud to build confidence.
Encourage peer practice through mini-dialogues
Pair students and have them create short dialogues about their routines using reflexive infinitive constructions. Interactive practice boosts understanding and retention.
Reinforce learning with quick daily warm-ups
Begin class with a one-minute prompt: students write or say a sentence using a target phrase (e.g., ‘Tener que’ + reflexive infinitive). Consistent repetition builds automaticity.
Frequently Asked Questions about Spanish Reflexive Verbs and Infinitives
What are Spanish reflexive verbs and how do they work with infinitives?
Spanish reflexive verbs are actions done to oneself and require a reflexive pronoun (me, te, se, nos, os, se). When paired with infinitives (unconjugated verbs), the reflexive pronoun is attached to the end of the infinitive or placed before the conjugated verb, matching the subject.
How do you use reflexive verbs after phrases like 'tener que' or 'ir a' in Spanish?
After expressions such as 'tener que' (to have to) or 'ir a' (going to), use the infinitive form of the reflexive verb and attach or place the reflexive pronoun to match the subject. Example: Tengo que lavarme (I have to wash myself).
What is a simple classroom activity for teaching Spanish reflexive verbs with infinitives?
A quick activity is to have students create a storyboard grid labeling each row with an infinitive phrase (like 'antes de') and writing original sentences combining it with a reflexive verb and the correct pronoun.
Why do reflexive pronouns change when used with infinitives in Spanish?
Reflexive pronouns must agree with the subject, even when used with infinitives. The pronoun indicates who is performing the action on themselves, so it changes (me, te, se, etc.) based on the subject of the sentence.
What are common phrases that require an infinitive followed by a reflexive verb in Spanish?
Common phrases include después de (after), antes de (before), tener que (to have to), ir a (going to), para (in order to), and acabar de (to have just). Each must be followed by an infinitive, and if reflexive, the correct pronoun is used.
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