CLS 121: Introduction to Latin I

Course Description
This is the first semester of a one-year introductory course for beginners in Latin which provides the basic skills for reading and translating original texts in poetry and prose. In a communal and highly active learning setting, the course focuses on the vocabulary, grammar, and structure of the Latin language while offering a general introduction to Roman history and culture through texts by classical authors.
Note: credit cannot be earned for CLS 121 unless CLS 122 is completed.

Course Objectives and Anticipated Outcomes: at the conclusion of this course, students will be able to demonstrate:

1. Knowledge of the essential forms, grammar, and syntax of Latin and familiarity with its basic vocabulary, from which so many English words derive
2. Understanding of how these fundamentals differ from the forms, grammar, and syntax of English, leading to an increased understanding of how both languages function
3. Ability to read, understand, and translate adapted passages in Latin
4. Ability to read, understand, and translate simple passages in unadapted Latin with appropriate assistance
5. Acquaintance with the daily life and culture of the ancient Romans and recognition of their values and social attitudes, particularly as these are embedded in their language

Materials of Instruction
Print Texts:
        M. Balme, J. Morwood, Oxford Latin Course, Parts I, II . 2nd ed. Oxford University Press, 1999 repr.
        M.W. Blundell, A. Cumming. Auricula Meretricula. Rev. Ed. Focus Classical Library, 1993 (excerpts)
        N. Goldman, L. Szymanski. English Grammar for Students of Latin. The Olivia & Hill Press, 1983 (excerpts)
Worksheets and Study Aids: distributed as needed
Computer Resources:
     Angel: course management system for assignments, resources, contact
     R. Cape, Vita Romana Cottidiana
     Horace's Villa
     Maecenas: images of Ancient Greece & Rome
     J. Siegel, Illustrated Guide to the Classical World
     Maps of the Roman Empire
     Philodemus Project: papyrus texts from Pompeii by Epicurean philosopher friend of Horace
     J. Quin, Horace's Epodes: in Latin and English
     Suetonius, Life of Horace
     VRoma: virtual Rome and more!
     S. Willet, Horace: bio, notes, translations of Odes
Latin on the Internet & MCL Software Programs: use independently or with your lab tutor:
     R. Cape, Workbook for Oxford Latin
     C.J. Cherryh, Latin the Easy Way (how Latin works)
     Flashcards for the Oxford Latin text
     Game: "Can You Climb the Latin Mountain?"
     L. Gibbs, Latin Proverbs
     Glossary of Grammatical Terms
     W. Harris, Understanding Latin Grammar: introduction to Latin grammar through English
     Latin Derivatives: English Words from Latin
     Latin Vocabulary: Prefixes
     E. Moutoux, English Derivatives
     B McManus, Diagramming Latin Sentences
     B. McManus, Self-Help Quizzes for the Oxford Latin text
     Oxford Latin Text Website for books I-III
     C. Pavur, Latin Praxis
     M. Phillips, Drills for the Oxford Latin text
     Scribax: random Latin sentences for practice
     G. Swann, Latine Discere: study aids for the Oxford Latin text
ANCIENT ROME: 3-D virtual reality reconstruction of Rome
HORACE TRAIL: follow in Horace's footsteps
LATINA: Latin flashcard drill
ROME: THE ETERNAL CITY: photo guide to the landmarks
TRANSPARENT LATIN: guide to translation

Methods of Instruction
    Class and lab time will be devoted to introduction and explanation of Latin forms; discussion of Latin language and culture; reading aloud and translation of Latin passages, prepared and at sight, including poetry, prose, proverbs, and graffiti; oral and written drills; computer demonstrations of on-line resources for Latin language and culture; occasional Latin games and other interactive activities
    Quizzes will be scheduled to assess learning achievements and difficulties
    Informal research assignments and presentations on language and culture will be assigned
    There will be optional field experiences: Metropolitan Museum of Art, videos ( History Channel's Rome), feature films (Gladiator, Cleopatra, Julius Caesar, etc.). Students selected a field trip on Friday, December 9, to view "The Legacy of Homer" exhibit at the Dahesh Museum.

Course Requirements and Assessment Methods: Students are expected to--

1. attend two class meetings a week, prepared and participating fully in all sessions for the entire time of the class. Students who miss class are expected to hand in assignments on time and to consult the Calendar section of the class Angel site for assignments and announcements. Make-up quizzes will be given only for excused absences; all others will receive a zero (All Objectives).
2. prepare carefully, completely, and on time all written, study, special, and computer assignments, using the on-line resources, Angel and individual appointments with the instructor or a student tutor at Learning Support Services for resolving difficulties (All Objectives)
3. actively engage in all class activities (all Objectives)
4. participate in assigned lab and computer sessions (Objectives 1, 3, 4, 5)
5. take all 6 semester quizzes. There will be no midterm or final exam, as language learning is incremental and cumulative.
6. meet for a final class on Monday, December 19 for presentations, consultation and course evaluation.

Tip: Learning Latin is like building a Roman temple -- it takes steady effort and time!

Begin with a deep, solid foundation on which you can add any number of courses of bricks and mortar. Top them with a massive roof that holds the walls together and protects the building against dissolution from the years and natural conditions. You will have a product to be proud of in time to come.

Grading: All required assignments must be completed before a course grade can be awarded. Students will be graded on the quality of their completion of the requirements listed above as follows:
        60% : class attendance, preparation, homework, participation*
        30% : semester quizzes (6); there will be no midterm or final exam
        10% : assigned special projects
*Students with more than 2 un-excused absences will find their grade negatively affected in this category.

Course Policies: attendance is required, as is appropriate class behavior; students are expected to meet assigned deadlines: un-excused late assignments will not be accepted; make-ups will be arranged for students who have medical or other serious excuses; students are expected to report an illness through proper channels; those found cheating or plagiarizing will earn an F for the course. At the beginning of the course, students with documented special needs are expected to inform the instructor of accommodations or services needed for successful academic participation.

Topical Outline of Course Content and Schedule:

        Our class meets Mondays and Wednesdays from 11-12:15, unless special events are scheduled.
        Tutoring and blackboard /computer activity/research/drill sessions, as well as semester quizzes, will normally be scheduled during the additional lab session (Fridays at 3 pm)

        Assignments for the following class will be written on the classroom blackboard every class meeting and will be posted on Angel after that class has ended. Make a habit of consulting Angel regularly for announcements, resources, and syllabus updates.

        The goal for the semester is to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary to read and understand adapted Latin passages. To that end we will complete the material in the first text in the Oxford Latin Course series in the fall semester.
        There are 16 weeks in the semester (including the first half-week, Columbus Day week, Thanksgiving week, and Finals week). Our pace each week will vary, in response to the type of material being studied and the needs and successes of the class as demonstrated in recitation and quizzes. At the present time, quizzes are scheduled for the lab meeting on weeks 3, 6, 8, 10, 13, and 15.