Spanish Learning Glossary: CEFR, Immersion, SRS & More (Explained Simply!)

If you’ve ever Googled “what does A2 mean in Spanish?” or wondered why everyone talks about “comprehensible input” and “immersion,” you’re not alone.

When you begin learning Spanish, you’ll quickly come across a sea of acronyms and methods: CEFR, SRS, shadowing, fluency, input, output… and it can all feel like a foreign language on its own.

This glossary breaks down the most common Spanish learning terms in simple, human language, so you can focus on what really matters: enjoying your journey.

Why Understanding These Terms Matters

Knowing the terminology helps you:

• Set realistic goals (you’ll know what A1 or B1 actually mean).

• Choose the right class or resources for your level.

• Understand how and why certain methods work better for you.
  

Whether you’re a total beginner or getting back into Spanish, this glossary is your quick reference guide.

A–Z Spanish Learning Terms

CEFR (A1 - C2)

CEFR stands for Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. It's the standard used to describe your level of language proficiency.

LEVEL	DESCRIPTION	TYPICAL ABILITIES
A1	Beginner	Can introduce yourself and use basic phrases
A2	Elementary	Can handle simple, everyday conversations
B1	Intermediate	Can talk about familiar topics and express opinions
B2	Upper Intermediate	Can understand complex ideas and communicate effectively
C1	Advanced	Can speak naturally and understand most spoken/written Spanish
C2	Proficient	Can use the language effortlessly, near-native fluency

Want to find your level? Try our level assessment to start in the right class.

Immersion Learning

Immersion means surrounding yourself with Spanish as much as possible; hearing it, reading it, speaking it - basically just like children learn their first language.

You don’t need to move abroad to experience immersion. At Learn en El Patio, classes are taught mostly in Spanish from day one, so your brain starts recognising patterns and meaning naturally.

If you're ready to start immersing yourself in Spanish, read our blog on Spanish Immersion Best Practices.

Input & Output Practice

These terms describe how languages are learnt and used:

• Input = What you take in (listening, reading).
  

• Output = What you produce (speaking, writing).
  

A balanced class gives you both, so you’re not just memorising, you’re communicating.

Shadowing

Shadowing is a technique where you repeat aloud what you hear, almost simultaneously. It helps improve pronunciation, rhythm, and fluency, like echoing a native speaker.

Try it with short Spanish podcasts or dialogues. It feels awkward at first, but it’s powerful for speaking with confidence.

SRS (Spaced Repetition System)

This is a method often used by apps to help you remember vocabulary long-term. It works by showing you words right before you’re likely to forget them, spacing reviews scientifically.

You can use SRS tools alongside your classes for faster retention.

Fluency vs Accuracy

• Fluency = How easily and naturally you can speak.
  

• Accuracy = How correctly you use grammar and vocabulary.
  

At Learn en El Patio, we help you grow both, but in the right order: fluency first, accuracy refined through feedback. Speaking naturally matters more than speaking perfectly.

Native-like Pronunciation

This means pronouncing Spanish words so they sound natural and understandable to native speakers. It doesn’t mean losing your accent; it means developing clarity and rhythm.

Our small classes focus on pronunciation from the start, with teacher feedback that helps you sound confident, not robotic.

Comprehensible Input

A term popularised by linguist Stephen Krashen, comprehensible input means hearing or reading language that’s just a little above your level, so you can understand most of it but still stretch yourself. 

This kind of input helps your brain absorb grammar and vocabulary naturally, without endless memorisation.

Conversational Focus

This is at the heart of Learn en El Patio’s teaching. Rather than textbook drills, you learn through real conversations, discussing travel, food, culture, and everyday topics. That’s what makes learning feel personal, not mechanical.

Micro-Goals & Milestones

Instead of setting “be fluent in a year”, we help learners set micro-goals:

• “Learn 20 travel phrases this week.”

• “Hold a 5-minute conversation in class.”
  

Every micro-goal becomes a milestone. When progress is measurable, motivation stays high.

Hybrid Learning (Online + Offline)

This approach blends the convenience of online Spanish lessons with the connection of in-person practice. At Learn en El Patio, you can combine both, joining from home during the week, then meeting classmates at local events.

Find Your Level and Start in the Right Class

Understanding your level is the first step to progress that feels right, not rushed or repetitive.

Take a quick level assessment to find your starting point, and let us tailor your Spanish learning journey from there.

FAQs

What does CEFR mean in Spanish learning?

CEFR stands for Common European Framework of Reference for Languages. It’s a standard for describing your language level, from A1 (beginner) to C2 (proficient).

What is an A2, B1, or B2 level?

These are stages within the CEFR scale. A2 means you can handle everyday topics; B1–B2 means you’re conversational and can discuss experiences and opinions.

What is immersion learning?

Immersion means surrounding yourself with Spanish; hearing, reading, and speaking it naturally, as if you were living in a Spanish-speaking environment.

What is the best way to remember Spanish vocabulary?

Using it often! Combine spaced repetition (SRS apps) with real conversation and reading. The more your brain connects a word to real meaning, the longer it sticks.