1. Salvete Parentes. Hello Parents
Salvete Parentes! Hello Parents! Welcome to the Grade VIII Latin Open House!
Jaclyn MacQuarrie

2. Educational Background and career choice
BA in Classics (Latin & Ancient Greek), Secondary Education, and History from University of Rhode Island
Why teach Latin? Why middle school? - Sharing my passion/knowledge with others; helping young minds grow

3. Advantages of Latin
The stereotype = One has to be smart to take Latin; The reality = Latin helps one become smarter
Lifelong skills, including 21st century skills [promotes higher order thinking… problem-solving, critical thinking (e.g. deductive/reasoning skills), reflecting, communication, metacognitive opportunities, etc.]
Improves or enhances numerous academic skills (vocabulary, reading, writing)
Interdisciplinary benefits
Latin-English connections: Derivatives (e.g. astronaut, transmission, video)
Latin is the basis for the Romance languages (Italian, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Romanian)
Allows us to better understand ourselves, as we compare and contrast our own culture with the Roman culture
Sententiae Antiquae – Latin in everyday use
Making personal and meaningful connections

4. Curriculum: Approach, Content, and Outcomes
Vocabulary, Grammar, and Culture (oftentimes fused together)
Cumulative approach (sequential and progressive)
Culture: Rome, Pompeii, and beyond (explore other areas, such as Roman Britain); Exposure to some authentic Latin; new perspectives on mythology (introduction to the Aeneid)
Grammar: more complex sentences; vocabulary; comprehension; from literal translations to comprehension and interpretation
Students will obtain a good handle on linguistic terminology
Discussable themes: Friendship, politics, daily life (share own experiences/make personal connections)
Opportunities to research and present on a topic of interest (demonstrating mastery of content and ownership of learning)

5. Curriculum: Approach, Content, and Outcomes Continued…
Cohesive and pragmatic unit design. Primary Textbook = Cambridge
Latin Series, Units 1 and 2 (aligned with teacher made unit packets)
*Teacher developed units go above and beyond
material found in the primary textbook.
The unit packets students receive typically include vocabulary
lists, derivative practice, grammar explanation and related
exercises specific to each unit, story comprehension questions,
and a review sheet for the test. Students will receive hand-outs
from time to time, in addition to the packets themselves. These
papers are to be kept in their binders throughout the year and
serve as additional resources and learning guides.

6. heri felem maximam liberi prope forum viderunt.
Let’s learn Latin!
heri felem maximam liberi prope forum viderunt.
(Yesterday, the children saw a very large cat near the forum).
(Nos) felem et canem videmus (active voice, all 6 tenses)
videbamus
videbimus
vidimus
videramus
viderimus
Animalia videbantur a nobis. (passive voice example)
Latin is an inflected language. In addition to knowing vocabulary and parts of speech, attention to detail, patterns, and endings is key to understanding the structure of Latin!

7. Activities and Special Assessments
Opportunities for group work/cooperative tasks
Student ownership of learning and accountability
Creative and relevant projects
Use of laptops/technology as an educational tool
Games
Educational Videos
Different learning styles taken into account… Sing songs, perform skits, illustrate ideas
National Latin Exam Level 1
ALIRA (Latin Interpretive Reading Assessment)
Benchmarks 3X a year to demonstrate student growth

8. Freshman year at the high school
While other language options will be available, all students currently taking Latin will be recommended for Latin in the high school.
The 8th grade curriculum prepares students for 2 Honors, and most advanced students will be recommended for that level.
Please contact the high school for further information on the language programs offered and their requirements.

9. Tips for succeeding in Latin
Maintain good study habits
Pay attention in class, study everyday, be willing to learn from mistakes
Consistency! Develop a routine/schedule
(10-vocab/10-concept review/20-homework)
Make or utilize resources: add post-its to textbook, Quizlet, study buddy sessions
Strategies: flashcards, sing to learn, consider what works well in other classes and apply here

10. Grading and Expectations
Come to class prepared
Be respectful
Homework consistency and completion
Keep up with vocab… finding the “right” strategies
Quizzes/checks for understanding on important concepts leading up to tests at the end of each unit. Tests given approximately every few weeks. Tests must be signed. **Please visit my homework website!**
Extra help can be arranged, if needed
Grades are viewable via Powerschool Portal

11. Contact information
address =
I believe strongly in working together to create a
positive personal experience and successful
academic year for your child! 

12. Your child is participating in an exciting, ongoing legacy!
The Roman world = an essential piece of the past
Latin students = an essential piece of the future

13. Thank you for coming this evening!
Multas Gratias et Valete Omnes!