Masters in Education in SPANISH and MATHS - Secondary School and Leaving Cert. Preparation in Spanish and Maths and Spanish for Adults. Native Spanish.Architect Technologist and Secondary School Teach

Find out more about Laura

• Do you speak this language fluently because of your origins or because a teacher inspired you to learn?

  I speak Spanish fluently because of my origins. Being from Galicia in the north of Spain, I grew up with both Spanish and Galician as my native languages, which gave me a natural fluency.

• Can you name a living, historical or fictional character that you think is the emblematic representative of the language's culture?

  Emilia Pardo Bazán is an important historical figure for both Spanish and Galician culture. She was a prominent writer and advocate for women's rights, and her work reflects the traditions and life in Galicia, as well as the richness of the Spanish language.

• Is there a typical word, phrase, tradition or behavior in the language that you particularly like?

  I love the Galician phrase "moriña," which describes the deep longing and nostalgia one feels for their homeland. It captures the essence of Galician culture and the strong connection to our roots. This word has been taken into the Spanish vocabulary.

• Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  Speaking Spanish matters to me because it allows me to share my culture and heritage with others. It's also a way to connect with my students and help them discover a new language, broadening their cultural understanding.

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

  One of the main difficulties in learning Spanish is mastering verb conjugations and tenses, as they can be complex. Regular practice and immersion in the language, like listening to Spanish music, watching shows, or speaking with native speakers, can significantly help the learning process. I teach and practice the verbs with my students through exercises and games to make it easier and more enjoyable.

• Provide a valuable anecdote related to your language learning or your days at school.

  When I first moved to Ireland, I was surprised by how many people were interested in learning Spanish. It made me appreciate my native language even more and inspired me to start teaching it. Sharing the language with students here has been a rewarding experience.

• How has travel or a specific trip helped you to increase your skill and knowledge of the language?

  Living in Ireland for nine years has given me the chance to see how Spanish is taught and learned outside of Spain. It has helped me understand the challenges English speakers face when learning Spanish and adapt my teaching methods accordingly.

• What makes you a Superprof in language?

  My fluency in Spanish and Galician, combined with English and Italian, gives me a unique perspective on language learning. I bring cultural insights, practical experience, and a passion for teaching to my students, helping them achieve their language goals in a supportive environment.