This class utilizes the Cambridge Latin Course for its accessible delivery of vocabulary and grammar as well as its depiction of colorful and engaging characters from a key period in the Roman Empire. The goal is not only to give students a solid foundation in the basics of the Latin language, but to engage them so they will retain their knowledge of Roman language and culture and seek to build on it further. This course builds on knowledge gained in Stages 1-4 of Unit 1 of the Cambridge series (see separate listing), but it is also suitable for students with any background in the language.

Students of this course learn Latin for the purpose of translation. The class provides reinforcement of grammar in English as well as world languages. Culturally, learners develop an understanding of the content, style, and values of Roman civilization in the first century CE. 

Each class introduces new vocabulary and grammatical concepts through simple illustrated captions that build in complexity to incorporate more advanced construction and syntax. The story line throughout the text incorporates various facets of Roman culture and history and is supplemented by additional media including videos. In-class discussion and translation aid in mastery of the material, and additional project work allows for application of concepts to demonstrate synthesis of what is being taught.

Course Outline (may be adjusted to accommodate student progress):

Week 1: Overview, Stage 5
- Summary of grammatical foundation
- Historical background
- Nominative plural nouns
- 3rd person plural verbs
- Roman theater

Week 2: Stage 5 (cont.)
- Practice noun-verb agreement
- Translate simple Latin play
- Examine Roman dramatic genres

Week 3: Stage 6
- Imperfect and perfect 3rd person verbs
- Dependent clauses
- Roman slaves and freedmen

Week 4: Stage 6 (cont.)
- Complete reading comprehension exercises
- Independent story translation
- Dramatic readings in Latin

Week 5: Stages 5 & 6 Review
- Compose Latin dramatic piece
- Contrast Roman slavery with other historical examples

Week 6: Stage 7
- Perfect tense verb forms
- Nominative omitted sentences
- Roman burial customs

Week 7: Stage 7 (cont.)
- Translation with subject-verb agreement
- Project: Create fictional report on Pompeiian "mystery"

Week 8: Stage 8
- Accusative plural nouns
- Superlative adjectives
- Introduction to gladiatorial shows

Week 9: Stage 8 (cont.)
- 1st and 2nd person singular present tense + accusative plural
- 1st, 2nd, and 3rd person present singular forms
- Story translation

Week 10: Course Conclusion
- Cumulative review: grammar, vocabulary, cultural discussion
- Share individual projects
- Administer diagnostic test