Activity Overview
In learning reflexive verbs, students are learning both new vocabulary terms, as well as a new grammar structure. In order to practice their meaning, have students focus on reflexive verbs as vocabulary by having them complete the following storyboard exercise.
Have students select the spider map layout to create distinct scenes that demonstrate the association of a reflexive verb with appropriate vocabulary. In each cell, have students include a title block displaying a reflexive verb as a question. At this stage, don’t have students worry about conjugation, just vocabulary association. In the cell body, students will place a character to respond to the question with relevant vocabulary. Have students create a cell for each reflexive verb that they are required to learn. This storyboard exercise can be tailored for more or less complexity. For example, the cells could include multiple characters—one to verbalize objects used to perform the action, and another to state where the action is likely to occur.
Below is a sample list of common reflexive verbs to use:
| Spanish | English |
|---|---|
| acostarse | to go to bed |
| bañarse | to bathe |
| cepillarse (los dientes) | to brush (one’s teeth) |
| ducharse | to shower |
| lavarse (la cara) | to wash (one’s face) |
| sentarse (e—>ie) | to sit down |
| levantarse | to get up |
| prepararse | to get ready/prepare |
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 learning reflexive verbs, students are learning both new vocabulary terms, as well as a new grammar structure. In order to practice their meaning, have students focus on reflexive verbs as vocabulary by having them complete the following storyboard exercise.
Have students select the spider map layout to create distinct scenes that demonstrate the association of a reflexive verb with appropriate vocabulary. In each cell, have students include a title block displaying a reflexive verb as a question. At this stage, don’t have students worry about conjugation, just vocabulary association. In the cell body, students will place a character to respond to the question with relevant vocabulary. Have students create a cell for each reflexive verb that they are required to learn. This storyboard exercise can be tailored for more or less complexity. For example, the cells could include multiple characters—one to verbalize objects used to perform the action, and another to state where the action is likely to occur.
Below is a sample list of common reflexive verbs to use:
| Spanish | English |
|---|---|
| acostarse | to go to bed |
| bañarse | to bathe |
| cepillarse (los dientes) | to brush (one’s teeth) |
| ducharse | to shower |
| lavarse (la cara) | to wash (one’s face) |
| sentarse (e—>ie) | to sit down |
| levantarse | to get up |
| prepararse | to get ready/prepare |
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 Words Vocabulary Activity
Engage students with a daily reflexive verb warm-up routine
Start each class by projecting a new reflexive verb and asking students to brainstorm as many related actions or objects as possible in Spanish. This quick activity builds vocabulary confidence and encourages active participation from all students.
Model how to use visuals to reinforce meaning
Draw or display simple images that represent each reflexive verb. Invite students to connect the word to the action visually, helping them remember both the meaning and usage in context.
Incorporate movement for kinesthetic learning
Have students act out each reflexive verb as you introduce it. This hands-on approach makes learning more memorable and can be especially helpful for younger or energetic learners.
Facilitate partner practice with quick conversations
Pair students and assign each a reflexive verb. Ask them to ask and answer questions using their assigned verb, focusing on vocabulary before grammar. This boosts speaking confidence and reinforces correct associations.
Assess understanding with an exit ticket challenge
At the end of class, hand out slips with reflexive verbs. Students must write or draw a matching action or object before leaving. Review responses to check for vocabulary retention and identify areas needing reinforcement.
Frequently Asked Questions about Spanish Reflexive Words Vocabulary Activity
What are Spanish reflexive verbs and how do they work?
Spanish reflexive verbs are verbs where the subject performs an action on themselves, using reflexive pronouns like me, te, se. For example, lavarse means "to wash oneself." These verbs help describe daily routines and personal care actions.
How can I teach Spanish reflexive verbs as vocabulary in a fun way?
Use a storyboard activity with a spider map layout where students match reflexive verbs to relevant vocabulary and scenarios. This visual approach helps learners connect actions to words without focusing on conjugation.
What is a simple classroom activity for practicing Spanish reflexive verbs?
Have students create a storyboard for each reflexive verb, using scenes and characters to show the verb in context. Students can add titles with the verb as a question and illustrate matching vocabulary in each cell.
Which common reflexive verbs should students learn first in Spanish class?
Start with high-frequency verbs like acostarse (to go to bed), bañarse (to bathe), cepillarse (to brush), ducharse (to shower), lavarse (to wash), sentarse (to sit down), levantarse (to get up), and prepararse (to get ready).
What’s the difference between reflexive and non-reflexive verbs in Spanish?
Reflexive verbs indicate the subject and object are the same (the person does the action to themselves), while non-reflexive verbs show the subject acting on someone or something else. For example, lavarse (to wash oneself) vs. lavar (to wash something).
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