Open
Location: Online - Zoom
Class dates: Aug 25 to Sep 15, 2026
Seats: Limited to 6 students · 6 spots left
Cost: 2 credits (about $150 to $198)
Tacoma Language Academy
Spanish Story Lab
Learn Spanish through simple stories.
A once weekly beginner Spanish class where you follow one story across four sessions, sketch picture notes, and finish the month able to understand and retell the full narrative with confidence.
Find an open section
1 hour per week · 4 week story cycles · 6 to 8 students
Free live preview
Experience a live Spanish class built around a story created by the group. You’ll help decide who the characters are, what happens, and where the story goes. The Spanish will be kept clear and accessible so adult learners can follow, participate, and build confidence without needing to understand every word. This free preview is for adults who want to learn Spanish. It is not intended for teachers attending to observe or study the teaching method. Language teachers may register only if they are participating as Spanish learners.
Wednesday, August 5 at 1:00 PM PDT
Reserve your free spot
What is Spanish Story Lab?
Spanish Story Lab is a gentle, structured, story based Spanish class designed for absolute beginners and A1 learners. Each month focuses on one short story told in four parts. You listen, draw simple pictures, answer guided questions, and gradually build enough understanding to retell the story using only your notes.
This is comprehension based learning for adults who want real progress without feeling overwhelmed.
Who is this course for?
Spanish Story Lab is a good fit if you are:
- an absolute beginner or early A1 learner
- someone who prefers stories instead of drills and worksheets
- someone who wants a calm, supportive environment
- someone who wants to understand before worrying about speaking
- someone who likes small-group classes with a real teacher
- someone who wants steady weekly progress, not a quick cram
Class size is kept small, usually 6 to 8 students, so everyone can follow the story and ask questions.
What you will be able to do
By the end of each four week story cycle, you will:
- understand the main events of a complete beginner level story
- retell the story using only simple picture notes
- recognize high frequency verbs and phrases
- follow Spanish spoken at a clear, natural pace
- feel more confident and ready for more Spanish
How the four week story cycle works
Week 1
Setup
Meet the characters, hear the beginning of the story, and create your first picture notes.
Week 2
Problem
Review week one, listen to the next part, sketch the problem, and take part in short guided interactions.
Week 3
Complication
Hear the twist, add more panels to your picture notes, and connect the pieces of a completed story.
Week 4
Resolution and retell
We'll review and read our unique story in class, and you'll complete your retell using only your picture notes.
What is included in each cycle
- four one hour live classes
- one story told in three beginner friendly parts + review
- picture note prompts
- a TPR verb list for the story
- weekly micro worksheets
- a short reading with footnotes after each class (that day's section)
- a polished final reading and audio retell at the end
Class structure each week
Every session follows the same friendly structure:
- gentle warmup and check in
- TPR verbs for the story
- listening to and helping create the next part of the story
- drawing simple picture notes
- guided comprehension checks
- short partner activity (depending on class speed and level)
- optional reading with footnotes
Pricing in credits
Spanish Story Lab uses the regular TLA credit system.
- Each one hour class costs 0.5 credits
- A full four week story cycle costs 2 credits
In dollars, this is usually between 150 and 200 per four week cycle depending on whether you use single credits or a credit pack.
Frequently asked questions
Is this course right for absolute beginners?
Yes. Spanish Story Lab is designed for beginners and early A1 learners.
Do I have to speak a lot in class?
No. Speaking is optional and always supported. The focus is on understanding.
Is there homework?
Homework is optional. You receive readings and audio retells for extra practice.
What if I miss a week?
You will receive the reading and audio for that part of the story so you can stay caught up.
How do I sign up?
Use your credits and register for an open section on the schedule.
Ready to start with stories?
Find an open section of Spanish Story Lab and reserve your spot.
Course Sections