2012-13 upper school course description book - University Liggett ...

MODERN AND CLASSICAL LANGUAGES
The aim of the language program is to develop proficiency and mastery in a second language. In both
modern and classical languages, students will achieve appropriate competency in their language of
choice.
Modern Languages: The French, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish courses emphasize the four basic
modern language skills – listening, speaking, reading and writing, as well as culture. The modern
language courses in the Upper School use the language lab for practice and to foster global connections.
In addition, the target language is used as much as possible in the classroom and all papers are written
in the target language.
Classical Languages: The Latin courses involve the study of Latin grammar and vocabulary through
reading and translation, along with exposure to word derivation, comparative grammar and the culture
and history of ancient Rome. Seniors are eligible to take Ancient Greek, where students learn the
linguistic elements necessary to appreciate vocabulary and classical texts.
Courses are offered in French, Latin, Mandarin Chinese and Spanish from the beginning to the advanced
level. Any ninth grader may begin at Level I in Chinese, French, Latin or Spanish. Students should feel
prepared to take the College Board SAT Subject Test at the end of the third or fourth level.
COURSE REQUIREMENT AND PLACEMENT
Students must complete three or four credits of language in Upper School, either three credits in one
language or two credits in two different languages. Four years of language study is strongly encouraged
in Upper School.
Students with exposure to a language in Middle School will be placed in an appropriate class by the
department chair. After successful completion of our Middle School program, students begin
Intermediate Mandarin Chinese or Spanish, or begin Latin I or Introductory French in the Upper School.
To enroll in accelerated courses, students must demonstrate excellence in all of the four language skills:
listening, speaking, reading and writing, as well as the motivation and discipline to work independently
in an accelerated course. Department recommendation is required for all accelerated courses.
Classical Languages
Latin
Latin I
Full year, one credit
This course is an introduction to the grammar, syntax and vocabulary of Classical Latin. Knowledge of
English grammar and vocabulary is enhanced by the careful study of basic Latin usage, verb forms and
derivatives. Students will translate passages that stress Roman culture, politics and religion.
Cambridge Latin Course: Unit 1 (4th Edition) ISBN – 13: 978-0-521-00434-9
Cambridge Univ. Press
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