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2  The word “a” means “to” or “at”  “a” contracts with “el” to become one word “al”  Remember the drop smoosh rule?

3  We don’t like too many vowel sounds together either. Example: “A apple” to soften this hiccup, we add “n.” In Spanish they subtract (or drop) a vowel and contract (or smoosh). Nosotros vamos a el colegio. Becomes Nosotros vamos al colegio.

4  The “a” personal does not translate. Whenever the direct object of a verb is a person, the “a” must be placed before it.  Direct Object – Who or what receives the action in a sentence.  Example: I watch the tv. Vs. I watch Dr. Phil.

5  Miro la televisión. No personal “a” because the DO isn’t a person.  Miro a el amigo de Roberto.  Miro al amigo de Roberto.  Escucho la música. (No “a” personal)  Escucho a el profesor.  Escucho al profesor.

6  The word “de” means “of” or “from” Don’t forget the “Drop Smoosh Rule” happens here too! Remember? de + el = too many vowel sounds de + la = no problem! Examples: Es el libro de el profesor. Becomes Es el libro del profesor. Es el libro de la profesora.

7 “de” follows the following prepositions: delante del jardín cerca del carro después de las clases antes de los exámenes detrás de la casa lejos de la tienda