If I were to develop a method to learn a language, I would call it THE PATTERN METHOD.
Why? Because patterns provide the framework that makes using a language possible. A language is, in essence, a set of patterns. I like to highlight patterns whenever possible to show that a language is not a random set of words mixed together, but a system where each word or block of words is a gear tooth.
Patterns can be an incredibly useful tool when learning Spanish. They can help you easily memorize words and phrases, make the language more understandable, help you speak more naturally, and make learning more effective.
Patterns are closely related to syntax. In short, syntax is what sets the ground for what is and what is not possible in a language.
Now, before we move on let’s see why patterns are so powerful:
Patterns make language more understandable
When learning a new language, it can be overwhelming to try to understand and remember all of the words, phrases, and grammar rules. Patterns can help make the language more understandable and approachable.
By understanding the patterns and recognizing them in context, you can quickly and easily decipher words and phrases.
Patterns help you use the language more naturally
When using Spanish, you want to sound natural and fluent. Patterns can help you do this.
By understanding the patterns of the language , you can easily construct sentences that sound more natural and fluid. This helps you sound more like a native speaker and makes communication much easier.
Patterns Help You Memorize
Patterns help you learn and memorize the language. Spanish has a number of patterns, including verb conjugations, and word order and fixed expressions.
Learning and recognizing these patterns can help you quickly and easily recall words, phrases, and grammar rules.
Patterns make learning fun
Maybe it’s only me, but it’s like detective work. When I spot a pattern I feel as if I have solved a case. Patterns can make language learning fun. Instead of just memorizing words and phrases, you can use patterns to understand the language and make it your own.
SOME COMMON PATTERNS
- S + V + O (Sujeto + Verbo + Objeto)
- S + V + CD (Sujeto + Verbo + Complemento Directo)
- S + P + V (Sujeto + Pronombre + Verbo)
- S + V + FP (Sujeto + Verbo + Frase Preposicional)
- S + V + INF (Sujeto + Verbo + Infinitivo)
- S + V + GER (Sujeto + Verbo + Gerundio)
- S + V + PREP + OBJ (Sujeto + Objeto + Preposición + Objeto)
- SVO + CC (Sujeto + Verbo + Objeto + Complemento Circunstancial*)
- SV + DO + IO (Sujeto + Verbo + Objeto Indirecto + Objeto Directo)
- S + PR + V (Sujeto + Verbo + Objeto Indirecto + Objeto Directo)
- Extending your phrases
- S + V + O + que + S + V
- SVO + y + SVO
- SVO + pero + SVO
- SVO + porque + SVO
- aunque + SVO + , + SVO
- si + Condición + , + Consecuencia
- IMPERATIVO AFIRMATIVO + (OD/OI) (Imperativo + Objeto Directo/Indirecto)
- NO + PRESENTE DEL SUBJUNTIVO + (OD/OI)
I hope I’ve encouraged you to look for patterns in case you’re not doing it already,
Give it a try,
Talk soon!
You might also want to read these articles:
- Something is better than nothingThis post is a friendly nudge for learners who stopped pushing towards their language learning goals.
- Estar chocho/aThis short post will give you a new phrase to practice your CHs
- Expressions with MIERDAAs a sequel to our previous post, today we focus on MIERDA and its multitude of meanings.
- The body and bodily functionsA handy list of things we all do but rarely (care to) learn in a foreign language.
- Spanish Class | SNLA fun sketch from Saturday Night Live where students are in class ‘learning’ Spanish.
- How to go about with reading in SpanishIn this post I want to make you want to read, even if you feel you’re not ready for it.