Are your Spanish students struggling to master the main differences between the verbs ser and estar? One common mistake learners make is not understanding how to use ser for permanent traits and use estar for temporary states. This free Ser vs. Estar Running Dictation game is the best way to get them up, moving, and thinking critically about the different uses of these important verbs.
What is Running Dictation?
Running Dictation is a great game that gets students engaged while reinforcing Spanish grammar. It combines reading, writing, listening, and speaking—making it an ideal way to help Spanish learners practice the main uses of ser and estar in different contexts. Students work in pairs or small groups to read following sentences, memorize them, and dictate them to their teammates.
How This Activity Helps with Ser vs. Estar
This freebie includes carefully crafted sentences that help students practice:
✅ The uses of ser for permanent characteristics, telling time, a person’s job, physical descriptions, and personal traits
✅ The use of estar for emotional states, temporary situations, physical conditions, and the present progressive tense
✅ The key differences between these Spanish verbs in different ways, helping students avoid common mistakes
How to Use the Free Ser vs. Estar Running Dictation
- Print and Post – Print the sentence strips and tape them around the classroom.
- Pair Up Students – One student is the runner who reads and memorizes a sentence, while the other is the writer who records it.
- Encourage Accuracy – The writer must write the sentence correctly, including the correct conjugation of ser or estar notes.
- Discuss and Correct – Review answers as a class to reinforce Spanish grammar and help students recognize subtle differences between permanent states and temporary situations.
Want to learn more about Running Dictation and how to use it effectively? Check out this blog post for a full Q&A of the activity!
Grab Your Free Ser vs. Estar Free Resource!
This activity is low-prep and high-engagement—perfect for reviewing ser and estar in a meaningful way. Whether you’re a Spanish teacher creating lesson plans for high school or teaching world languages at any level, this game reinforces different verb uses in the Spanish language. Download it now and make grammar practice fun!
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