Question 1

How do I know if a Spanish noun is masculine or feminine?

Accepted Answer

While there are general rules (e.g., nouns ending in -o are usually masculine, -a are usually feminine), there are many exceptions. The best strategy is to learn the definite article (el or la) with each noun. Also, look for endings like -ción, -sión, -dad (feminine) or -ma, -pa, -ta (masculine). In the exam, context can also help – for example, if an adjective ends in -o, the noun is likely masculine.

Question 2

What are the rules for making Spanish nouns plural?

Accepted Answer

For nouns ending in an unstressed vowel, add -s (e.g., el libro → los libros). For nouns ending in a consonant, add -es (e.g., el profesor → los profesores). Nouns ending in -z change the -z to -c before adding -es (e.g., la luz → las luces). Some nouns ending in -s or -x that are stressed on the last syllable do not change in the plural (e.g., el lunes → los lunes). Always check for accent mark changes.

Question 3

Why do some Spanish nouns have different genders than I expect?

Accepted Answer

Spanish noun gender is not always logical. For example, 'el día' (day) is masculine even though it ends in -a, and 'la mano' (hand) is feminine even though it ends in -o. These are exceptions that you need to memorise. Some nouns come from Greek or other languages, which affects their gender. The key is to practise and use flashcards to reinforce the gender of common nouns.

Question 4

How does noun gender affect other words in a sentence?

Accepted Answer

Noun gender affects the form of articles (el/la, un/una), adjectives (e.g., rojo/roja), and some pronouns. For example, 'el coche rojo' (the red car) vs. 'la casa roja' (the red house). In the plural, adjectives also change to match number: 'los coches rojos'. This agreement is essential for correct grammar and is tested in all parts of the GCSE exam.

Question 5

What are some common mistakes with plural forms in Spanish?

Accepted Answer

A common mistake is forgetting to change the -z to -c before adding -es (e.g., writing 'luces' as 'luzes'). Another is incorrectly adding -s to nouns ending in a consonant (e.g., 'profesors' instead of 'profesores'). Also, students often forget to drop or add accent marks when forming plurals, such as 'canción' becoming 'canciones' (accent removed). Practice with a variety of nouns to avoid these errors.

Question 6

Do all Spanish nouns have a gender?

Accepted Answer

Yes, every Spanish noun has a gender – either masculine or feminine. Even nouns for objects or abstract concepts have a gender. For example, 'el amor' (love) is masculine, and 'la felicidad' (happiness) is feminine. There are no neuter nouns in Spanish, though there are neuter articles (lo) used with adjectives to form abstract concepts (e.g., lo bueno = the good thing).

Grammar (Foundation): Nouns – gender; singular and plural forms

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

Examiner Tips

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

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Related Topics in WJEC GCSE Spanish

Appendix A: Prescribed Vocabulary List (organised by theme/sub-theme)

Appendix B: Grammar Requirements – Foundation Tier

Current and Future Study and Employment

Current Study – School/College Life

How to Revise Grammar (Foundation): Nouns – gender; singular and plural forms — WJEC GCSE Spanish

Examiner Tips for Grammar (Foundation): Nouns – gender; singular and plural forms

Common Mistakes in Grammar (Foundation): Nouns – gender; singular and plural forms

Key Marking Points