Question 1

What are the most important Spanish festivals to know for the AQA exam?

Accepted Answer

You should focus on the most iconic ones: El Día de los Muertos (Mexico), La Tomatina (Buñol), Las Fallas (Valencia), and Semana Santa (Seville). You don't need to be an expert, but you should be able to describe what people do (e.g., 'tiran tomates' or 'desfilan por las calles') and give an opinion on whether these traditions are important for keeping culture alive.

Question 2

How do I use 'soler' to talk about my free time?

Accepted Answer

The verb 'soler' means 'to usually do something' and is a 'Grade 7+' structure. It is a radical-changing verb (o > ue), so you say 'Suelo' + infinitive. For example, 'Suelo salir con mis amigos' (I usually go out with my friends). It is much more sophisticated than just using the present tense alone.

Question 3

What is the difference between the Preterite and Imperfect when talking about my childhood?

Accepted Answer

In Theme 1, use the Imperfect (e.g., 'jugaba', 'era') for ongoing actions or descriptions in the past, such as what you used to be like or what you used to do regularly. Use the Preterite (e.g., 'fui', 'comí') for specific, completed actions, like a one-off trip to the cinema or a birthday party last week.

Question 4

How can I talk about the disadvantages of social media in Spanish?

Accepted Answer

To get high marks, use phrases like 'lo malo es que' (the bad thing is that) or 'un inconveniente es' (one disadvantage is). Useful vocabulary includes 'el ciberacoso' (cyberbullying), 'la pérdida de tiempo' (waste of time), and 'la presión social' (social pressure). Always try to balance these with a positive 'por otro lado' (on the other hand).

Question 5

Do I need to know about Spanish food for Theme 1?

Accepted Answer

Yes, food is a major part of the 'Free-time activities' and 'Customs' sub-topics. You should be able to name a few dishes like 'paella', 'tortilla española', or 'tapas', and use verbs like 'probar' (to try) or 'merendar' (to have a snack). Being able to compare Spanish eating habits (like eating late) with UK habits is a great way to show cultural knowledge.

Theme 1: Identity and culture

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

Examiner Tips

Common Mistakes

Revision Plan

Exam Question Types

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Study Guide Available

Likely Command Words

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Related Topics in AQA GCSE Spanish

Theme 2: Local, national, international and global areas of interest

Theme 3: Current and future study and employment

Topic 1: Home, town, neighbourhood and region

Topic 1: Me, my family and friends

How to Revise Theme 1: Identity and culture — AQA GCSE Spanish

Overview & Synopsis

Key Marking Points