It has been scientifically proven that we memorise things faster when learning is fun, exciting and triggers positive emotions. Therefore, why don’t we spice up the traditional process of acquiring knowledge by introducing sensory elements, games and fun into the learning process?

How can we learn the verb conjugation using the jigsaw puzzles? Let me show you some ideas that work best with my students in individual classes as well as proposals for using the jigsaw puzzles for teachers working with groups.

First a few words about the idea itself and the contents of the box.

The set consists of 45 most commonly used Spanish irregular verbs, 15 from each conjugation (-ar, -er, -ir). Each group is marked with a different colour to facilitate faster recognition and assignment of verbs. Additionally, the box contains infinitives, jigsaw puzzles with human figures (yo, tú, él / ella / usted, etc.), and instructions with seven games on lower and higher levels. When doing these jigsaw puzzles, we use logical thinking and visual perception, and therefore we memorise the types of irregularities faster. We can choose the verbs that are the most problematic, and either practise all three conjugations or focus on one.

For self-study I recommend doing the jigsaw puzzles in the traditional way. In this way one can check their own abilities. Thanks to high aesthetic values and neat design doing the jigsaw puzzles is pure pleasure.

What else can be done with Regipio jigsaw puzzles? For example, after arranging selected irregular verbs to be presented or practised with a student, we can mix up all the puzzle pieces. Then the student draws a few puzzles (e.g. duermo, podemos, dicen) and creates either a sentence or a question with them. Alternatively, we can use randomly selected puzzle pieces to create short stories in the present tense. We can also choose a verb in the infinitive form, ask the student to arrange the puzzle pieces correctly, and then to come up with as many expressions as possible with this verb in different forms. For example, for an IR verb:

Voy de viaje.
Vas al cine.
Mario va al extranjero.
Vamos de compras.
Váis deprisa.
Van tirando.

There are many more opportunities in group classes. Here jigsaw puzzles can be used as cards. Divide students into groups (from 3 to 6 people) and choose from 6 to 12 puzzle pieces with infinitive forms and their conjugation. Then mix all the puzzle pieces and arrange them with the blank side up. When students have drawn the same number of cards (puzzle pieces) say a verb in the infinitive which will start the game. The player with this verb on a card places its infinitive form on the table. For example: PENSAR. The task of the players is to add the other cards to the first one either from the top or from the bottom to finally get the following order:

PIENSO
PIENSAS 
PIENSA
PENSAR
PENSAMOS
PENSÁIS
PIENSAN

Then another player can only add the 3rd person singular or the 1st person plural to the infinitive form of PENSAR. If a player does not have any form of this verb, they may put another infinitive or miss a turn if they have none. The next player can now add the appropriate form to the first or second verb. The game ends when all the cards have been used and arranged appropriately.

The Regipio game instructions contain descriptions of other games and activities for the jigsaw puzzles. In my opinion, it is an excellent alternative for traditional lessons. You can find the jigsaw puzzles on the Regipio website as well as in many online bookshops. I am very interested in hearing your opinions about the jigsaw puzzles as a tool for learning Spanish irregular verbs. I will be happy to hear from you regarding  ideas for using them in class or for self-study. I am looking forward to your comments. Have a great weekend!