Sistema de formas en colores (SFC) is a symbols-based system for teaching Spanish grammatical structures and concepts within a communicative context in the elementary school. The (ACTFL) Standards for Foreign Language Learning: Preparing for the 21st Century states that, "While grammar and vocabulary are essential tools for communication, it is the acquisition of the ability to communicate in meaningful and appropriate ways with users of other languages that is the ultimate goal of today's foreign language classroom. So, even with the current emphasis on communication-based pedagogy, the relevance of teaching grammar still exists and grammar must be taught. However, teaching in a communicative context requires that grammar instruction support the learners' developing communicative needs. Unlike some other systems available from commercial vendors, SFC is a word-based system that tackles grammar issues head on and can even be used as a writing aid in the foreign language. (Contains 7 figures.)