CLAS145-12S2 (C) Semester Two 2012
Beginners' Latin B

Description

This course builds upon the knowledge of Latin and the skills that students have acquired in CLAS144. In class students will continue their study of the language and prepare to read unadapted Latin texts, for example in stage 2 and 3 Latin classes and beyond. There is no “conversational” component to this class. Although Latin is commonly referred to as a dead language, in fact it lives on in English and the Romance languages, and it remains the official written and spoken language of the Vatican and the Catholic Church. In the sciences Latin informs technical terminology (for example, botanical names or anatomical parts) and the Romans, who spoke this language, have shaped much of the ways in which we think today.

Each class session will consist partly of lecture and partly of exercises and translation. Students will participate in the class by providing answers to and analysis of prepared exercises or longer translations. We will also work on new exercises or translate previously unseen Latin as a group in an atmosphere that is supportive and constructive. Class participation is highly recommended. Students who consistently attend classes usually gain much confidence, and develop the ability to share their individual insight and work with others towards a common goal.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course students will have acquired:

• a holistic grasp of Latin language
• an increased knowledge and awareness of English grammar and vocabulary
• disciplined study habits, confidence based on this habits and ability to work with others
• greater skills in analytical thinking and linguistic flexibility

Pre-requisites

Restrictions

For further information see School of Humanities.