Latin I
Course Expectations
2010 - 2011
Instructor: Mrs. Lauren Meyers
Course Description
This class is a first level introduction to the Latin language. This class will introduce Latin grammar, vocabulary, Roman history, and culture. An extensive review of English grammar will also be included as we move through Latin grammar. Emphasis will be based upon understanding of the grammatical concepts of Latin and the employment of them through simple translation. Vocabulary will also play a major role.
At the completion of this course, students who plan to pursue Latin will have a strong knowledge of the basic concepts of the Latin language and history. For those students who do not wish to further their coursework in Latin, they will leave this course with a better understanding of grammar, a larger vocabulary, and problem solving skills which will prove helpful for further studies in English, Literature, History, or other subjects as well as valuable knowledge which will help to increase scores on standardized tests such as the SAT.
Materials Needed
Textbook: Latin for Americans
Notebook: All students must have a two subject notebook with separate sections for notes and homework. I will expect students to take notes on material during class! All students should have a separate folder for Latin in which to save handouts, quizzes, worksheets, etc…This folder can be part of the notebook.
For the study of vocabulary I recommend that students use some note card or flashcard. Using flashcards is an extremely effective way to study vocabulary. “Sparknotes” makes blank cards which are very helpful and available at most bookstores. These cards are not required, but I have found them to be very useful for memorization.
Classroom Conduct and Daily Routine
All students are expected to come to class on time. If you are late you must have a pass.
Please have all materials needed for class (Notebook, Folder, Textbook, and Workbook)
All Students must be in dress code.
No food or drink is allowed in class.
I will expect students to be attentive and respectful to the teacher and to each other.
Cell phones, ipods, etc… are not permitted in class.
When using laptops: instant messaging, checking e-mail, and “surfing the web” are not permitted.
Any failure to meet these standards of conduct will result in a lower class participation grade.
Extra Help
If any student should need some after school extra-help, or if there is something that the student would like me to explain more fully in class, please see me. I am here to help however I can and am more than happy to change lesson plans, class structure, or give extra help if needed.
Grading
Grades will be based upon a points system including the following:
Class Participation – This includes arriving to class on time, being in dress code, bringing all necessary materials, being attentive, respectful, and participating in class. Participation will be worth 34% of the final grade.
Homework – Periodic homework will be assigned, and I will check homework to see that it has been completed. Homework assignments will be included in the class participation grade.
Quizzes – Short quizzes will be given to ensure that students are learning material. In-Class quizzes may be announced or unannounced. Quizzes will be worth 33% of the final grade.
Tests – Tests will be announced well in advance and there will be review classes for the tests. They will be an in-depth demonstration of knowledge and skill. Tests will be weighted more heavily than quizzes. Tests will be worth 33% of the final grade.
Absences
Short Term Absences – the student must contact me and make up the assignment within 3 days of returning to school.
Long Term Absences – the student should contact me via e-mail in order to discuss the completion of missed work.
E-mail Policy
E-mail is the most efficient way to contact me. In your e-mail you must include your name and your class. I will check my e-mail at home no later than 6 pm. If, for example, a student e-mails me on Tuesday at 9:30 I may not read that e-mail until Wednesday morning. Please be aware of this.
Academic Honesty
All students are expected to uphold high standards of academic integrity and honesty.
Cheating of any kind will result in automatic failure of the assignment. Incidents of academic dishonesty will be referred to the Dean of Students, Mrs. Hals