Course of Study: Classical Languages

The Classics Department in the Upper School offers Latin and Greek language classes as well as a course in Mythology headed by instructor Sarah Roach. Mrs. Roach obtained her B.A. and M.A.L.S. from Mary Washington College, is the author of Libellus Fabularum Latinarum, published by University Press America in 1997, and has been at Highland since 1984. Every spring, Mrs. Roach's classes go on an optional educational trip to Europe where students learn about foreign cultures and traditions. If you have any further questions please contact Mrs. Roach via e-mail at sroach@highlandschool.org.

LATIN

Latin I (full year) (course number 412)

Latin I introduces the concepts of an inflected language, lays the basis for future language study, builds a sound basis of English grammar through the teaching of Latin grammar, and increases English vocabulary.  The curriculum includes exercises to develop students' language skills.  Extensive Latin passages, covered in class, are designed to increase students’ translation skills, and frequent vocabulary quizzes expand their vocabulary in both English and Latin.  Complementing the language study are lectures on various aspects of Roman culture, emphasizing its contribution to western civilization, selected field trips, the National Latin Exam, and various other state and national contests. 

Latin II (full year) (course number 413)

Latin II is a continuation of the grammar and cultural study of Latin I.  Latin II students begin the year with a review of the material from Latin I and then continue their study of grammar throughout the remainder of the year.  Students build their translation skills through the story line of the text.  Culturally, students examine Roman Egypt, including Antony and Cleopatra and the Battle of Actium.  During the second semester students concentrate on Roman Britain, which is preparation for the study of Caesar. Complementing the language study are selected field trips, the National Latin exam, and other state and national competitions.

Latin III (full year) (course number 414)

Latin III students begin the year with a short grammar review and continue working in Unit III of the Cambridge Latin series, during which time they complete their formal study of grammar. Culturally, students study Roman religion, the calendar, and baths.  During the second semester, students move on to a study of Julius Caesar, his army, and his Commentarii de Bello Gallico.  Students compete in various state and national competitions, including the National Latin Exam; additionally, juniors and seniors taking this course are encouraged to take the Latin section of the SAT II.

Latin IV (full year) (course number 415)

In Latin IV, students begin the year with a short grammar review.  Students then resume the storyline in Britain upon returning to the Unit 3 text.  Students also study the city of ancient Rome, including the Forum Romanum, Masada, and Roman engineering.  In the Unit 4 text, students examine the works of various authors, including Martial, Pliny, Vergil, Phaedrus, Catullus, Cicero, and Ovid. They learn how to scan dactylic hexameter and analyze elegiac and epic poetry.  Students participate in the National Latin Exam and various state and national competitions.

Latin IV Honors (full year) (course number 436)

During the first semester, Honors Latin IV students translate selections of Ovid's epic poem, the Metamorphoses, and his elegies the Amores.  In addition to studying the poetic devices particular to Ovid, students conquer scanning dactylic hexameter meter and elegiac couplets.  During the second semester, students translate selected poems of the lyric poet Catullus and Petronius’ Cena Trimalchionis.  Students participate in the National Latin Exam and various state and national competitions.

Latin V (full year) (course number 418)

This class gives students the opportunity to add an extra year of foreign language to their high school transcript.  Students translate selections from Virgil's epic, the Aeneid, and a comedy by Plautus.  Students end the year by translating Fabulae Mirabili, Harrius Potter et Philosophi Lapis.  Students compete in the National Latin Examination.

CLASSICS ELECTIVES

Classical Mythology (semester elective) (course number 419)

This class is an introduction to the primary characters and most important stories of Greek and Roman mythology.  Following the text of H. A. Guerber, this course covers the Greek concept of creation and the main Greek and Roman gods, including Zeus, Hera, Athena, Poseidon, Apollo, Ares, and Aphrodite.  Next, Greek Heroes such as Hercules, Perseus, Theseus, and Jason are discussed; the course finishes with the Trojan War.  Contemporary films and documentaries complement classroom discussion and readings.