 Get organized early: be prepared, ask questions, know how the book is arranged, know how to check the HW website, etc. Latin, like other languages and many subjects, builds upon itself. So, whatever we learn at the beginning, will be applicable again and again in the future.

 The scouts’ motto holds true in many situations in life, especially now in school. So, I expect you to be prepared by always bringing the following materials to class on time: a supply of pencils/pens, paper* (your composition book), your Latin textbook, your Latin binder and/or folder, your homework, and your enthusiasm. A great portion of your participation grade depends on being prepared.

 Make the most out of class.  I expect you to immerse yourself only and completely in the study of Latin and the Romans during class. I.e., get involved and participate with your whole being. Do NOT do work for other classes in Latin class. Avoid cross- talking and making other types of disruptions of the lessons. And I don’t even need to say that it is against school policy to text or use cell phones during class. Again, make the most out of class, and you will learn many beneficial and interesting things.

 In real estate, they say it’s all about “Location, Location, Location.” Well, in language classes, it’s all about learning and using the vocabulary words. You will find that Latin is especially useful for strengthening our English, since nearly 2/3 of all English words derive from Latin, and 90% of all English words longer than two syllables come from Latin. So, make your vocabulary flash cards and learn the words by heart, and you can find uses for them for the rest of your life.

Be sure to stay focused in class! The study of Latin requires deep concentration at times and much problem solving. Many researchers have likened the study of Latin to a mental game of concentration which electrifies different centers of the brain. So, what I need you to do, when things get complicated, is to stay engaged and not give up on the thought or daydream. As always, raise your hand if you don’t understand a concept.

Doing homework, like practice drills in sports or practicing an instrument, is an essential piece in the study of any language. Homework allows for the review of concepts studied in class, and prepares you for quizzes, tests, and other assessments. Latin homework is never busywork and should be done as part of your routine in this class. Homework is also worth a lot of points, so don’t let your dog eat it!

Allegedly, this is all the people wanted in Rome: to be fed and to have entertainment. I do not mind you eating food in class, if you clean up after yourselves – in fact, we should have the occasional Roman banquet. But, any trash left over, and you will lose this privilege. Also, you are NOT to leave class to go get food in the café or anywhere else. As for entertainment, one of the joys of learning Latin is to study the exciting culture of the Romans. We will have a culture period during the last ¼ of our block days.

Latin will help give you a context or the “big picture” perspective of the world we live in, not just of western culture. Latin trains you to make connections with the ancient and modern world, whether by helping you to break apart word roots, prefixes and suffixes, or by exposing you to lessons in history or thought. Now in class, act like good citizens. We are a community of learners, but we all learn in different ways and at varied speeds. Let’s support ourselves as learners, and not ridicule others for making mistakes (mistakes are part of the learning process) or even for getting things right. As a teacher, I will always encourage improvement and success.

You are responsible for any work missed due to an absence or for leaving the room. See the student handbook for the district policy on make-up work. Keep bathroom visits, trips to the locker and the nurse etc., to a minimum. I am always available for extra help.

I hope you enjoy learning Latin and the study of the Romans. It may be challenging at times, but most rewarding. The word “art” comes from the Latin word meaning “a learned skill” or something that requires training. The art of the Romans takes many forms: sculpture, painting, architecture, city planning, military excellence, fashion (jewelry,hairstyling, etc), political science, mythology, poetry, literature, etc. And Roman art and thought has played a huge role in shaping societies and governments for thousands of years (E.g., we have a senate; we have a republic or representative democracy; and our legal system is rooted in the Roman system, etc). So, Latin will help give you “the big picture” context and perspective.

Be confident in what you’re learning! My job is to help make you confident. Face each sentence or exercise head on, or in coach language, “tackle” the challenges. If you comprehend (see root of this word!) and own the information, you will appreciate it more. And there should be a thrill in figuring things out. As always, please ask questions or seek me outside of class for extra help. Bonam Fortunam!