Latin I is a course that uses a reading-based approach to introduce students to the basic elements of Latin syntax and semantics. The course includes vocabulary, English words from Latin roots, broad topics in basic grammar (i.e. subject, verb, parts of speech), classical mythology, Roman history and other cultural topics. Students will be introduced to their first year of study with the first book of the series called Ecce Romani.

Latin II, beginning with a review of the concepts taught in Latin I, continues on with the major themes and topics of the previous level. Latin II students are challenged to think on a deeper level about information from the previous year, while considering newer material. The course includes vocabulary, English words from Latin roots, intermediate level grammar discussions (i.e. pronouns, superlative adjectives, passive voice), a more focused look at Roman mythology and history and other cultural topics. Students will continue in the study of Latin with Ecce Romani, Book II.

Latin III students enter the year with a review of the major themes and ideas from their previous two years of study. From this point, Latin III students begin the more challenging process of looking at the final elements of the basic grammar study they have done in the past along with the more oblique grammatical concepts that appear to be somewhat foreign to their senses (subjunctive mood, deponent verbs and dependent clause function using the subjunctive). This course will also take cultural information to a deeper level of study: looking into the practices and customs of the Roman people through certain ages. A look into the lives of the Romans through authentic readings may be a possibility toward the end of this course. Students will use Ecce Romani, Books II and III as their reference text for the course.

Emphasis at this level is on the student’s ability to control the numerous clauses used by Latin writers. The subjunctive mood, and the clauses that require it, is the focus at the beginning of the year. Significant attention is paid to the signals that identify dependent clauses and the semantic interpretation of these clauses. All of the skills the students have developed throughout their first three years of study will be applied as they translate actual Latin texts. The selections they will read will vary depending on the interests of the class.

Latin IV will offer students a change to gain a more comprehensive view of Roman history and the effect it has had on our own culture. Students will continue to read a variety of works, primarily prose but also some poetry. Selections will vary according to the needs of the class.