LATIN 107 – 2007-08

Mr. JAIME GONZÁLEZ OCAÑA - HOMEROOM: 21

I.                    Course description:

Latin 107 is an intensive course designed for beginners who have not taken any Latin before. We will use the Oxford Latin Course – Part 1 book, which includes latin texts for translation, grammar exercises, cultural readings on Roman history, culture and society, and a selection of classical literary texts (Homer: Odyssey and Iliad; Virgil: Aeneid). The textbook follows the early life of Quintus Horatius Flaccus, known to us as the great Roman poet Horace.

Translation, presentations, skits, games, projects (we will be completing various projects throughout the year: team projects, oral projects and presentations, computer projects) are all a part of this class in addition to quizzes and grammar activities. Relax and have fun!

II.                Course materials:

• 1. Oxford Latin Course – Part 1 Textbook (hardback, orange-colored)
• 2. Binder, with the following sections:
• In-class work
• Homework
• Grammar
• Vocabulary
• Quizzes-Tests
• 3. Small notebook (= vocabulary notebook)

III.               Grades:

The final grade is based on the following criteria (teacher reserves the right to change the grading criteria at any time):

IV.                 Remarks on the class and classroom behavior

• Be ready for class, at any time!!! Bring to the classroom all the materials you need to follow the class, and take care of lavatory and water fountain needs before class. No excuses!! Be on time for class.

• Homework will be checked on daily basis, and must be neat and have name, date and assignment on it. Homework will include memorizing vocabulary and translating sentences. Any homework assignment missed equals -5 points for the trimester homework average; any work turned in late equals -2.5 points for the trimester homework average.

• Organization is key: keep your binder organized at all time (binders will be checked up by the teacher before every test); keep track of the new vocabulary; keep a copy of every quiz and test, as they will be useful for you when reviewing for the Final Exam in June.

• Take advantage of the class time to participate as much as possible. Reading, practicing, and translating Latin in class are the most useful ways to learn the language. Participation counts for 15% of the grade. You will get a weekly grade, which will be the average of your day-to-day work for the week. Daily participation grade could go from 0 to 100, and it will reflect your work and attitude in class.

• Ask questions every time you feel you don’t understand what is going on. I will be always willing to help you as much as I can. Ask for extra-help if you need to do so.

• A weekly homework assignments sheet will be posted on the Web at the beginning of the week. The Web page will be also used as a resource for posting class information. Take advantage of the resources on the Web page: everything (assignments, grammar lessons, vocabulary notes, review for tests, etc.) is on the Web site!!

• Learning a new language is always difficult and effort demanding. We will be learning a lot of new things at a fast pace. I encourage you to accept the challenge with an open mind and positive attitude. Do not be afraid AT ALL of mistakes, grammar errors, etc.

• I expect from all of you a mature and polite behavior. Cursing and other kinds of inappropriate language are not allowed in class. Raise your hand. Listen to others. Show respect for classroom property and for other student’s materials. Honesty, integrity, kindness, and a clear understanding of the importance of personal honor are all essential qualities of every Brunswick student. The Latin class is not an exception.

Signature: ________________________