Learning Latin

by Jennifer Jordan, Middle School Latin Teacher

Fifth graders are Latin sponges! We have had Latin for only 4 days, and the class has already learned the first conjugation present tense and has translated a sentence. How did they do this? Interactive learning. I like to use a song to memorize the first conjugation verb endings, as the present tense endings form the foundation of all Latin verb forms. After learning the song, we practice applying the endings to our first 5 verbs in the curriculum. Students get up in the front of the room to “test” their classmates. Giving students the opportunity to play “teacher” and quiz each other helps to cement the learning in their minds. It’s a win-win because the students are applying meaning and they’re having fun while doing it.