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Learn more about Nayra

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

  I am a native speaker; I was born in the Balearic Islands of Spain, so my whole family, including me, speaks Spanish. That's my mother tongue.

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

  From a language perspective, I would have to mention Miguel de Cervantes, the author of Don Quixote. His book was one of the most translated works and has had a great influence on Spanish literature. It is, perhaps, one of the most influential books of the modern era. Not to mention, the Instituto Cervantes, which teaches the Spanish language to native and foreign speakers around the world, is recognised as the leading educational institute.

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

  Merienda (light snack in the afternoon), Siesta (nap), and Terraceo (the act of going out to sit on a terrace of a bar, cafe, or restaurant to enjoy some food, drinks, or coffee, usually with friends.
  
  
  
  I think the last one is my favourite, as it really enhances Spanish culture; there is nothing more Spanish than going to a terrace and enjoying the sun with some drinks.

• Why does speaking this language matter to you?

  I spent most of my life in Spain, so I always took the language for granted, that is, until I moved to London for my final year of university. It was there that I realised the importance of speaking Spanish as an essential part of my identity and the bonds which I formed with people around the world. Language is a bridge to other people´s souls. Then, when I moved to Malaysia, I started seeing so many people interested in learning my language, and I felt so proud to be able to share it.

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

  It really depends on the level at which you are learning, and it really varies from person to person. Usually, grammar is what takes the most time to learn and master, but doing constant exercises as well as progressive learning is very helpful in eventually gaining mastery.

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

  When I was in school, I would write poetry and short stories. I would write using a typewriter and would research and explore a lot of vocabulary, using a dictionary.

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

  When I moved to Malaysia, everyone was curious about the language and would ask me technical questions that were difficult to explain. It pushed me to start doing my own research, understanding grammatical and linguistic structures. Afterwards, I decided to start teaching, so I bought Spanish language books, enrolled in courses and did my own research.
  
  
  
  So, I have to thank all the people who asked me questions about Spanish, who inspired me to continue learning, continuing that lifelong journey of being a student, not just a passenger.

• What makes you a Superprof in language?

  I really focus on the learning journey.
  
  
  
  The first step is to analyse your initial level of knowledge of the language, and afterwards, I will tailor the lessons to the students' needs. I tend to divide and vary different skills in class: grammar, speaking, reading, and listening. Every class has a holistic approach to the language. We focus on pronunciation and practice several exercises together at home. Afterwards, I provide homework to complete, which I correct outside of class hours. The most important thing I emphasise is the progressive learning in each class. Once I teach something, I continue practising and spreading it throughout the classes.
  
  
  
  I am really keen on my students understanding and internalising the learning before moving on to something new.
  
  
  
  But most importantly, I love the act of teaching, interacting with my students, and seeing them grow.