READING LIST
Have a look at our Reading lists below, whether you have just started Spanish or you are already a confident reader, we have compiled a list of our favourite books just for you.
We strongly advise you to visit the School Library as often as possible as the Spanish Department has just subscribed to two new magazines for Spanish learners, ¿Qué tal? (KS3) and El Sol (KS4). We also have new reading books for all ages and Spanish people's favourite magazine: Hola. Download the lists for KS3/4 here and the one for KS5 here.
We strongly advise you to visit the School Library as often as possible as the Spanish Department has just subscribed to two new magazines for Spanish learners, ¿Qué tal? (KS3) and El Sol (KS4). We also have new reading books for all ages and Spanish people's favourite magazine: Hola. Download the lists for KS3/4 here and the one for KS5 here.
FLAMENCO
Flamenco is a form of Spanish folk music and dance from the region of Andalusia in southern Spain. It includes cante (singing), toque (guitar playing), baile (dance) and palmas (handclaps). First mentioned in literature in 1774, the genre grew out of Andalusian and Romani music and dance styles. Flamenco is often associated with the Romani people of Spain (Gitanos) and a number of famous flamenco artists are of this ethnicity.
In recent years flamenco has become popular all over the world and is taught in many countries: in Japan there are more academies than there are in Spain.On November 16, 2010 UNESCO declared flamenco one of the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
Click here for video of Joaquin Cortes, one of the most recognised Flamenco dancer.
Sevillanas are also a part of the Flamenco repertoire and are originated from Sevilla and its region.
In recent years flamenco has become popular all over the world and is taught in many countries: in Japan there are more academies than there are in Spain.On November 16, 2010 UNESCO declared flamenco one of the Masterpieces of the Oral and Intangible Heritage of Humanity.
Click here for video of Joaquin Cortes, one of the most recognised Flamenco dancer.
Sevillanas are also a part of the Flamenco repertoire and are originated from Sevilla and its region.
RECETAS
You have all heard of Tapas, Tortilla, Guacamole, Paella, Nachos etc... Now, why don't you try these recipes at home and impress your family and friends with a Hispanic Theme party?
ARTE
Where to begin? Spanish and Hispanic culture in general is very rich. Here are some links to famous artists. Maybe you could prepare a little presentation on one artist to your class? Do you know them all? if not, click on the links! If yes, can you suggest someone else to your teacher? Dali, Picasso, Miro, Botero, Velazquez, Goya, Gaudi, link to Museo del Prado (most important collection of Spanish painters).
CORRIDA DE TOROS
Barbary or art? Whatever your opinion is, it is definitely part of the Hispanic culture. Before you make up your opinion, have a look at these links (definition, video, art or cruelty to animals? to understand la 'corrida de toros'.
FUTBOL
Have you heard of Diego Forian, Xavi, Carlos Tevez, Andrea Iniesta, Lionel Messi, Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka, Real Madrid, FC Barcelona etc? Of course you have! Spanish and South American people are passionate about football, just like most of you! Click here for news from Primera, Segunda and La Roja plus match reports, reviews, blogs and weekly highlights from a Spanish perspective. Also, here is the official link to the Spanish Football team
FESTIVALES
Have you ever seen bulls running free in a village or people throwing tomatoes at each others? Spain and Hispanic countries have lots of festivals, but they're not just tourist attractions, there is always a cultural or historical meaning to these traditions. Find out more about la Tomatina (World's biggest food fight!), San Fermin Festival (in Pamplona, with bulls running free in town), the Three Kings Day (Spanish Christmas), Feria de Sevilla (celebrating Andalusian culture), Carnivals etc...