Latin I

The study of the Latin tongue is very practical, and is an invaluable study for all students, whether young or old. One reason that should come immediately to mind is Latin's far-reaching impact on the English language. Taken in conjunction with the fact that it was, for over 500 years, the language of the Christian Church, this reason is more than sufficient to justify studying the language. But there are others. One benefit I cannot emphasize too much is the opportunity to learn about grammar within a regular language system. This aspect is one that will serve students well for the rest of their lives, whether they venture into modern language studies, or merely want to expand their own vocabulary and hone their communication skills. As you have guessed, I would like to see the study of this ancient language revived -- and that with enthusiasm -- in our modern schools. I personally enjoyed Latin very much, and I look forward to communicating this enjoyment to my students (and, by extension, to their parents as well).

Cassiodorus.org's online Latin class will be held twice weekly. During the first class I will introduce the chapter and get the students started on the assignments. In the second class I will review the lesson and answer any questions. As we have time we will work on in-class translation. Students will be encouraged to learn the lesson well so we can be free to do fun stuff in class instead of spending time on donkey work such as memorizing paradigms.

Ann Myers' text approaches classical Latin by taking the student on a tour of a Roman home. Students will learn the names for rooms and household items just like they would if they were going to live with a Roman family. This study of Latin doesn't just teach the basics of Latin grammar and vocabulary, but is also a fascinating lesson in the history and anthropology of the everyday life of the Roman home.

Course Summary and Profile:

Age Range: 12 and up

Topic: Basic Latin Grammar and Vocabulary

Duration: 1 year

Latin is usually associated with the first or "grammar" stage of the trivium of classical education. This course will equip the student with basic Latin vocabulary and grammar. We will use the classical pronunciation but will also focus on translating out of the Vulgate.

Required Texts

1. Latin Grammar I: A Grammar of Classical Latin For the Beginning Student, Ann Myers

2. The Vulgate and other Latin sources (available online)