PreS-Gr 4--Basic Spanish vocabulary is taught via simple animation, songs, and repetition. The videos revolve around a cartoon family from Veracruz, Mexico. As viewers are introduced to the family and their pets, various Spanish words and phrases are presented. Each is introduced orally and in print, associated with a picture, and repeated numerous times with encouraged viewer participation. Lessons are taught by a male and a female narrator who speak clearly and have minimal accents. Each video contains at least two lessons, each focusing on a different vocabulary area. There is a review at the end of each lesson. Songs include "La Cucaracha" (with words appropriate to the intended audience), "Que Llueva" (with no explanation for the line "la virgen de la cueva"), and "La Gallina." These videos do not teach grammar, conjugation, word gender, or the Spanish alphabet. A few words seem regional. There are occasional minor grammar flaws, and a line out of place in the teaching of "La Cucaracha." Still, this series provides a basic introduction to some Spanish words and phrases that might provide a good jumping-off point for more intensive study.

Teresa Bateman, Brigadoon Elementary School, Federal Way, WA

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