Founders Classical Academy of Fort Worth
Week of November 2 - November 8
Sententia Hebdomadis (Quote of the Week)
"Alea iacta est." - Julius Caesar
(“The die is cast.”)
Salvēte!
Hebdomadis Recapitulatio (Week in Review)
This week, students began Chapter 4 of Wheelock’s Latin, which introduced second declension neuter nouns—a new and important category of Latin grammar! We explored how these nouns differ from masculine and feminine forms, especially in their unique endings for the nominative and accusative cases. Students practiced identifying these forms in short sentences and translation drills, building on their understanding of how Latin expresses grammatical relationships. To celebrate Character Day, we also discussed the Roman pantheon and dressed as various gods and goddesses—bringing mythology to life in a fun and memorable way! The students showed great creativity and enthusiasm throughout the week.
Prospicientia in Proximam Hebdomadam (Looking Ahead to Next Week)
Next week, we will continue working through Chapter 4, reinforcing the patterns of neuter nouns and adjectives. Students will practice more complex translations and work in groups to create mini-dialogues featuring Roman deities. We will also begin reviewing Chapters 1–4 to prepare for our upcoming cumulative assessment. By the end of the week, students should feel confident identifying and using Latin nouns of all three types we’ve learned so far.
Verbum Hebdomadis (Word of the Week)
bellum, belli (n.) — war
Scisne…? (Did You Know...?)
The Roman god Mars, while known as the god of war, was also considered a guardian of agriculture in early Roman religion. Before he became associated mainly with battle, Romans prayed to Mars to protect their fields and flocks—showing how deeply their gods were tied to every aspect of daily 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.