Question 1

How do I describe my family in Spanish for GCSE?

Accepted Answer

Start with 'En mi familia somos [number]' and list members: 'mis padres, mi hermano mayor, etc.'. Use adjectives for personality: 'mi madre es cariñosa y paciente'. Describe relationships with reflexive verbs: 'me llevo bien con mi hermana' or 'a veces me peleo con mi padre'. Add a comparison: 'mis padres son más estrictos que los padres de mis amigos'.

Question 2

What Spanish vocabulary do I need for talking about friendships?

Accepted Answer

Key words include 'el/la amigo/a íntimo/a' (close friend), 'conocerse' (to meet), 'hacer amigos' (to make friends), 'confiar en' (to trust), 'apoyar' (to support), and 'tener algo en común' (to have something in common). For problems, use 'discutir' (to argue), 'sentirse solo/a' (to feel lonely), and 'resolver conflictos' (to resolve conflicts).

Question 3

How do I use the subjunctive when giving opinions about relationships?

Accepted Answer

Use the subjunctive after expressions like 'es importante que', 'es necesario que', or 'no creo que'. For example: 'Es importante que los padres escuchen a sus hijos' (It's important that parents listen to their children). Also after 'para que' (so that): 'Hablamos para que nos entendamos mejor' (We talk so that we understand each other better).

Question 4

What are common mistakes in the 'Youth Culture' essay?

Accepted Answer

Students often forget to include a comparison between UK and Spanish youth culture, or they use the same tense throughout. Another mistake is not using topic-specific vocabulary—avoid vague words like 'bueno' or 'malo'. Instead, say 'una relación sana' (healthy relationship) or 'la presión social' (social pressure). Also, check agreement of adjectives and use of reflexive pronouns.

Question 5

How can I talk about social media's impact on friendships in Spanish?

Accepted Answer

Use phrases like 'las redes sociales afectan las amistades de manera positiva y negativa'. Positive: 'ayudan a mantener el contacto' (help keep in touch). Negative: 'pueden causar malentendidos' (can cause misunderstandings) or 'crean envidia' (create envy). Give an example: 'Por ejemplo, si alguien no responde a un mensaje, puede sentirse ignorado'.

Question 6

What is the difference between 'llevarse bien' and 'llevar bien'?

Accepted Answer

'Llevarse bien' is a reflexive verb meaning 'to get on well with' someone, e.g., 'Me llevo bien con mi primo'. 'Llevar bien' without 'se' means 'to carry well' or 'to handle well', e.g., 'Llevo bien el estrés' (I handle stress well). Don't confuse them—the reflexive pronoun changes the meaning completely.

Youth Culture – Self and Relationships

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

Examiner Tips

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Likely Command Words

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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 Youth Culture – Self and Relationships — WJEC GCSE Spanish

Examiner Tips for Youth Culture – Self and Relationships

Common Mistakes in Youth Culture – Self and Relationships

Key Marking Points