House of Humane Letters is very excited to announce the launch of our Latin Department. Joining Mr. Banks, BA in Classical Studies, University of Idaho, is Mrs. Anne Phillips.
Anne received a degree in Latin and Greek from Hillsdale College and will shortly complete her PhD in Classical Studies from University of California, Santa Barbara.
In addition to her experience teaching Latin from kindergarten to college students, Mrs. Phillips shares with Mr. Banks a great love of the Latin language and especially of the poet Virgil.
We are thrilled that she has joined our team and are eager to offer a thorough and enthusiastic Latin Program. What other academy can offer Latin classes with not only experienced teachers, but teachers who regularly read The Aeneid in Latin for fun?
We cannot wait to share this love with your students! Registration for our first Latin class will begin Friday, March 31st at Noon Eastern Time via mailing list and our website!
The House of Humane Letters Latin Program
Latin 1 taught by Anne Phillips (registration opens March 31, 2023 on our website and our mailing list)
Grades 6 to 8 (older students welcome)
This will be a 32-week course, which will meet Wednesdays and Friday from 2:00-3:30 PM Easter Time beginning in the Fall of 2023.
Introductory Price: $650.00 (including non-refundable $95.00 deposit)
Latin 1 Course Description:
The language of the ancient Roman people is well worth studying for its own sake, but especially for the sheer joy of reading the Romans in their own words. Many important Western texts, such as Virgil’s Aeneid, are best enjoyed in the original language. There are other benefits to studying Latin, of course, but we should always approach another language and culture with respect for its particular genius rather than for the benefits it can confer upon us.
Latin 1 will introduce students to the rudiments of Latin grammar and syntax with the goal of building reading proficiency and love of the language. Latin 1 will cover Wheelock’s Latin chapter 1-20. This class will rely primarily on what is called the “grammar-translation” approach, which particularly emphasizes learning grammar and vocabulary first. However, this class will also integrate reading and translating to help students put their knowledge into practice.
The long-term goal of such a class is to enable students to read and appreciate Latin literature for years to come, especially because this study can illuminate our understanding of Western authors who have depended so much on their Roman models such as John Milton or Shakespeare or C.S. Lewis.
Students will be evaluated periodically through the semester based on short weekly exercises, a weekly quiz, a midterm and final exam.
Latin 2 taught by Anne Phillips (opening 2024 school year)
Grades 7 to 9 (older students welcome)
Latin 3: Readings in Classical and Christian Latin taught by Thomas Banks (opening 2025 school year)
Grades 8 to 10 (older students welcome)
As the program grows, multiple sections will be added. Adult evening courses also available.