¡El profe de español más chulo del mundo! Yo soy Marcelo, poliglota y tu nuevo tutor en la lengua más bonita del mundo. ¿Empezamos?

Wywiad z nauczycielem Marcelo 📝

• Do you speak the language fluently, either because of your background or because someone inspired you to learn, for example?

  Yes, I speak Spanish fluently because I grew up surrounded by its culture and people. It has been a part of my everyday life since childhood, which helped me develop a deep understanding of both the language and the nuances that come with it. Additionally, my passion for the language was inspired by an influential teacher during my high school years who made me appreciate not only the mechanics of the language but also its cultural significance. Over time, this inspiration turned into a lifelong commitment to mastering and teaching the language.

• Can you cite a living, historical, or fictional figure that you consider to be a symbolic representative of the culture of that language?

  One figure that comes to mind is Gabriel García Márquez, the famous Colombian writer and Nobel laureate. His work, particularly One Hundred Years of Solitude, is emblematic of the Latin American experience and beautifully showcases the depth and complexity of the language. His use of magical realism also reflects the rich cultural tapestry of Latin American societies, making him a perfect representative of the culture that the language embodies.

• Is there a word, phrase, or saying that you particularly like?

  Yes, one phrase I particularly love is "La vida es un sueño", which means "Life is a dream." This quote, from the Spanish playwright Calderón de la Barca, speaks to the transient nature of life and the importance of living in the present. It resonates deeply with me because it reminds me to appreciate the fleeting moments and to never take anything for granted.

• Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  Speaking this language matters to me because it's not just a tool for communication; it's a window into an entire culture, history, and worldview. The language holds the stories, traditions, and struggles of its people, and by speaking it, I can connect with others in a more meaningful way.

• What is the main difficulty in learning this language, and what can help in the learning process?

  One of the main difficulties in learning this language is mastering its verb conjugations and tenses, which can be intricate. Spanish, for example, has many conjugation forms depending on the subject, mood, and tense. The best way to overcome this challenge is through consistent practice and immersion. Listening to native speakers, practicing with conversational partners, and focusing on context can help students understand when and how to use different verb forms.

• Maybe some anecdote/curiosity related to this language?

  I once had a student who struggled to understand the difference between the "tú" and "usted" forms in Spanish. This is a common challenge for English speakers since English doesn't have such a distinction. One day, while we were practicing in class, I used the example of how you would speak to a friend versus how you would address a boss or someone you don't know well. To make it memorable, I jokingly asked the student to imagine talking to a celebrity. They found it so amusing that they immediately grasped the concept and never forgot it!

• How has traveling helped you improve your language skills?

  Traveling helped me improve my language skills. Not only does it provide an opportunity for immersive practice, but it also allows me to experience the language in its natural context-whether it's ordering food in a bustling market, discussing local traditions with native speakers, or simply overhearing conversations in the street. Each experience deepens my understanding of the subtle nuances, slang, and regional differences within the language, enriching both my teaching and my connection to the language.

• What makes you a Super Language Teacher?

  What makes me a "Super Language Teacher" is my genuine passion for the language and culture, paired with my commitment to creating a dynamic and supportive learning environment. I strive to make learning engaging and interactive, emphasizing not only grammar and vocabulary but also cultural insights that provide real-life context for language use. I focus on personalized teaching methods that cater to the individual needs of my students, ensuring they feel confident and motivated throughout their learning journey.