Latin

Open House Video V3.mp4

Latin

  • Latin 1 - In this beginning Latin course students learn to pronounce and read orally by imitating the teacher. The main tasks in the first level are learning the word order of the Latin sentence, the case endings of Latin nouns, and adjectives according to the use in the sentence. Verb forms of all six tenses of the indicative mood, the active and passive are learned. Students are introduced to the techniques of translation. Myths and legends of ancient Rome and Greece are read and translated. Reading is the main skill to be developed.

  • Latin 2 - On this level more complex grammatical forms are taught with the aim of developing the skill of reading Latin with comprehension. Students continue to prepare translations. They are expected to translate a few selected passages at sight, and to analyze Latin sentences explaining the grammatical function of each part. Derivative work is greatly expanded to include Latin phrases used in today’s English. Readings include mythology, history, government, and social customs of Ancient Rome. Roman culture is related to modern conditions.

  • Latin 3 - The first years of Latin are reviewed. The finer points of grammar are added. Excerpts of the works of such authors as Cicero, Pliny Ovid, and Seneca are read and translated with the emphasis on precise meanings. Some techniques in reading Latin poetry are introduced. The Latin/English relationship is studied in greater depth with considerations of Greek influences.

  • Latin 4 - This course provides the opportunity for advancing and refining the skills learned during the first three years. The principal literary work to be read consists of the first three books of Virgil's Aeneid. Other activities include the study of advanced grammar, figures of speech, the mythological and historical background, and reading aloud and analyzing poetry.

  • Latin 5 - This course is an Advanced Placement course. It allows the students to advance and expand their understanding of a variety of poetic styles, including lyric, elegiac, and dramatic, Authors to be read are Horace, Catullus, and Plautus. The course focuses on figurative devises, colloquial as well as traditional grammar, and metrical scheme. Emphasis is based on the cultural, mystical, and historical background of the poetry.