Why Fun, Easy-to-Implement Games Like “Mata la Mosca” Are a Lifesaver in the Spanish Classroom
Let’s be real—sometimes, the best-laid plans go sideways. Whether it’s a surprise dress rehearsal or picture day throwing off your schedule, we’ve all had those days where class time either gets cut short or stretches longer than expected. That’s where quick, flexible games like Mata la Mosca (Swat the Fly) come in handy! Not only is this game fun and easy to set up, but it also enhances lessons, helps review vocabulary, or even works as a brain break when your students need to reset.
In this post, I’ll explain how you can play Mata la Mosca as a whole class, in small groups, or in teams. I’ll also share how your students can make their own Mata la Mosca game with any vocabulary they’re learning—and trade with a neighbor!
Why Fun and Easy Games Are Essential for Teaching
First, why are quick, low-prep games so valuable in the classroom? Simple: they’re engaging, versatile, and reinforce learning through fun. According to research from the National Institute for Play, incorporating play into lessons boosts retention by up to 60%! Games like Mata la Mosca create an environment where students feel excited to practice Spanish while sharpening their skills without even realizing it. Plus, when you’re short on time or need an activity that requires minimal setup, these games are a total lifesaver.
How to Play “Mata la Mosca” (Swat the Fly)
Whole-Class Version:
In the whole-class version, students use worksheets with target vocabulary—like the numbers 1-20 in Spanish. You call out an English word (or number), and students race to slap the corresponding Spanish word on their worksheet. Whoever finds it first shouts, “¡Mata la mosca!” and earns a point. It’s fast-paced, fun, and you can adjust it for any vocabulary you’re teaching.
Small Group Version:
If you want to break the class into smaller groups, have students sit together in teams. Each group gets a set of words or numbers, and they work together to find the correct translation when you call it out. This version keeps the game collaborative and helps build teamwork, while still providing practice with vocabulary.
Team Race to the Board Version:
In this variation, divide the class into two teams. Project the words on a smart board or whiteboard. One student from each team races to the board with a flyswatter (or their hand) when you call out a number in English. They swat the correct Spanish word, earning a point for their team if they’re the first to hit it. Cue laughter, friendly competition, and lots of language practice!
Let Students Create Their Own “Mata la Mosca”
One of the best parts about Mata la Mosca is that your students can make their own versions! Here’s how to turn this into a creative project:
- Have Students Choose Their Own Vocabulary:
Whether they’re learning colors, classroom objects, or animals, students can create their own worksheet by drawing flies with vocabulary words on them. - Trade Worksheets with a Neighbor:
After creating their worksheets, students swap with a partner and play against each other. One student calls out a word, and their partner must find and swat it as quickly as possible. This turns Mata la Mosca into a peer-driven review game that’s personalized to each student’s learning needs.
Why Games Like “Mata la Mosca” Are the Perfect Blend of Fun and Learning
Games like Mata la Mosca hit the sweet spot between fun and educational value. Not only do they provide much-needed brain breaks, but they also help reinforce vocabulary in a way that’s engaging and low-stress. And the best part? These games can be adapted for any time crunch. Whether you have five minutes left or an extra twenty, games like this help maximize your class time.
Research from the Journal of Educational Psychology found that students who engage in playful learning are 50% more likely to retain information compared to traditional study methods. Why? Because play triggers positive emotions, which are directly linked to improved memory and cognitive function.
The Gist of it All
Incorporating fast, easy-to-create games like Mata la Mosca into your Spanish classroom makes learning both effective and fun. Whether you’re playing as a whole class, in teams, or letting your students make their own games, you’re reinforcing vocabulary in a way that’s dynamic and memorable. Best of all, this game is versatile enough to fit into any classroom situation—whether your time is cut short or you’ve got a few extra minutes to fill.
And don’t forget—the rest of the numbers are available on my TPT site, making it simple to continue this journey!
