" Así son means 'that's how they are,'" the professor explained. "It describes character—the essence of a person or thing."

He pointed to Mateo. "Describe your sister."

" Así son ," corrected the professor. "Not just 'she is'—but 'that's how she is.'"

Luna thought of Carla and Diego—always late, always laughing. " Así son mis mejores amigos. Siempre llegan tarde, pero son leales."

Luna added, " Así es la clase—difícil, pero aprendemos."

"Your turn, Luna," said Professor Alvarez. "Describe your best friends."

And Mateo and Luna? They finally understood: Así son wasn't just grammar. It was acceptance.

Then the professor raised his hand. "One more. Describe this class."

Así Son Ellos

"Good," said the professor. "Now practice it —in pairs."

He wrote on the board: