Founders Classical Academy of Fort Worth
Week of February 22 - February 28
Sententia Hebdomadis (Quote of the Week)
"Per aspera ad astra." - Unknown
(“Through hardships to the stars.”)
Salvēte!
Hebdomadis Recapitulatio (Week in Review)
This week, students completed their test over Chapters 6 and 7 of Wheelock’s Latin, demonstrating their understanding of key grammar concepts, vocabulary, and especially third declension nouns. The assessment required careful attention to noun endings, verb forms, and accurate translation. In addition to testing, we explored aspects of domestic life in ancient Rome, discussing the structure of the Roman household and the roles of family members. Students learned about the paterfamilias, household gods, and daily routines within a Roman home. These cultural discussions helped students see how language and daily life were deeply connected in the ancient world.
Prospicientia in Proximam Hebdomadam (Looking Ahead to Next Week)
Next week, we will begin Chapter 8, which introduces new developments in Latin verb conjugation. Students will learn how verb patterns expand and how recognizing conjugations helps with faster and more accurate translation. We will practice identifying principal parts and applying them to form complete sentences. This chapter marks an important step forward in mastering Latin verbs and building reading fluency.
Verbum Hebdomadis (Word of the Week)
corpus, corporis (n.) — body
A third-declension noun from Chapter 7, corpus appears frequently in Latin literature and has given us English derivatives such as corpse, corporal, and corporation.
Scisne…? (Did You Know...?)
Many Roman homes included a small shrine called a lararium, where families honored the Lares and Penates—protective household spirits. Each day, members of the household would offer small prayers or gifts at this shrine, believing these spirits safeguarded their home and family life.
Valēte!
About Mr. Laurence
Mr. Ethan Laurence-Gauglitz earned his Bachelor of Arts in International Studies from the University of North Texas, also studying a semester at Gottfried Wilhelm Leibniz Universität in Hannover, Germany. After graduation, he served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Kosovo, working as a grant writer for the local municipal government and teaching English in local schools. These experiences deepened his appreciation for cultural exchange, global perspectives, and the power of language to connect people.
Most recently, Mr. Laurence was the Academic Coordinator and Lead English Instructor at Excel Academy in Henderson, Nevada, where he developed curriculum, supported teachers, and helped students reach their full potential. He brings to the classroom a love for languages, literature, and learning, and is excited to share these passions with his students this year.