Code in Spanish with q5.js!
Make coding more accessible to bilingual and ESL students in your CS classes.
q5 v3.8 is here, and it introduces something that’s pretty unique: fully translated Spanish documentation and Spanish-language code support. 🥳
This isn’t just a translation layer or Spanish explanations wrapped around English-only APIs. With q5, students can actually write their code in Spanish — while still having full access to English if and when they’re ready.
👉 Try it yourself: https://q5js.org/learn/?webgpu&lang=es 🌐
(Switch back to English using the language selector in the top-right corner of the q5 Learn pages.)
I wrote all the documentation for q5 in English, not with AI, because I believe that AI isn’t good enough for that kind of writing, but it’s quite good at translation. The Spanish translation was done by Github Copilot using Gemini and edited by my wife who is Colombian and a native Spanish speaker. If you find any issues, please let us know.
The upcoming q5play game engine will also enable students to code in Spanish, stay tuned!
Not Just Docs — Code in Spanish Too! 🤯
Most programming tools that claim to support other languages stop at documentation. The code itself remains English-only, which creates an unnecessary barrier for millions of learners worldwide.
q5 takes a fundamentally different approach.
In q5 v3.8:
Functions and properties exist in Spanish
English APIs remain fully supported
Students can freely mix Spanish and English in the same sketch
This means learners can start coding using familiar vocabulary, then gradually adopt English terminology as their confidence grows — without being forced into an all-or-nothing transition.
Curious how it works under the hood? Take a look at the language system here:
https://github.com/q5js/q5.js/blob/main/src/q5-lang.js 🤓
Why This Is Huge for ESL Students 🤩
For educators working with native Spanish speakers or students learning English as a second language, this is a game changer.
1. Reduces Cognitive Load
Learning to program is already hard. Learning programming and a new spoken language at the same time is even harder. q5 lets students:
Focus on computational thinking first
Learn syntax and logic without language anxiety
Build confidence early instead of feeling lost
2. Supports Gradual Language Acquisition
Because Spanish and English APIs coexist, educators can:
Start lessons entirely in Spanish
Introduce English keywords organically over time
Encourage bilingual code as a stepping stone, not a failure mode
This mirrors best practices in bilingual education: scaffolding instead of immersion-by-force.
3. Improves Equity and Access
Spanish is the second-most spoken language in the world by native speakers. Yet most CS tools still assume English fluency from day one.
q5 helps level the playing field by:
Making creative coding accessible earlier
Allowing students to demonstrate understanding without being penalized for language gaps
Valuing students’ native language as an asset, not an obstacle
4. Better Outcomes, Not Lower Standards
Importantly, this isn’t about “dumbing things down.” The underlying concepts, performance, and capabilities of q5 remain exactly the same.
Students still:
Learn real programming concepts
Write real code
Can prepare to learn industry-standard English APIs when ready
The difference is when and how that transition happens.
Try It With Your Students 🚀
If you teach:
Computer science
Game Design
Creative coding
STEM or STEAM
Bilingual or ESL-focused classes
👉 Start here:
https://q5js.org/learn/?webgpu&lang=es
¡Disfrútalo amigos! 🤝