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