Linguistic Differences Between Spanish and English: Challenges for Native Spanish Speakers and Instructional Strategies for Effective Language Learning

Authors

Allison Kassing, University of Nebraska-LincolnFollow

First Advisor

Dr. Lydiah Kiramba

Date of this Version

3-2025

Document Type

Thesis

Citation

Kassing, A. 2025. Linguistic Differences Between Spanish and English: Challenges for Native Spanish Speakers and Instructional Strategies for Effective Language Learning. Undergraduate Honors Thesis. University of Nebraska-Lincoln.

Comments

Copyright Allison Kassing 2025

Abstract

This research article presents a contrastive analysis of Spanish and English, highlighting key linguistic differences that contribute to common grammatical errors among Spanish-speaking English learners. The study examines these differences across four linguistic layers: phonology, morphology, syntax, and semantics. Through error analysis, patterns of language transfer were identified and used to develop four 50-minute lesson plans tailored for English Language Learning (ELL) classes with native Spanish speakers. By recognizing students’ prior linguistic knowledge, ELL teachers can anticipate and address common errors more effectively. Special emphasis is placed on phonemes, morphemes, cognates, and sentence orders that do not exist in both languages, providing targeted instructional strategies to bridge these gaps.