Latin Beginner 1 (MLT116A)

• University credits: 10
• University levels: 1-4
• Pre-requisite: No previous learning experience
• Co-requisite: N/A.
• Availability: Students, members of staff, members of the public
• Teaching period: Autumn semester (see timetables & course dates)
• Contact times: 3 hours per week (two sessions in a week) over 11 weeks, starting in Week 1 of the semester.
• Group size: Maximum of 23
• Language Co-ordinator: Anna Ferrarese
• Module Leader: Anna Ferrarese
• Pathway: MLT116B

Assuming no prior knowledge of the language, this unit aims to provide an extended foundation in the language and culture of ancient Rome for the study of simple classical and medieval texts, or for a better understanding of how modern languages such as English are influenced by their Latin origins. Of particular relevance to Linguists, Historians, Archaeologists, Theologians and Musicians, this unit should also be of interest to students of Law, Medicine, Chemistry, Biology and other modern sciences wishing to investigate further the etymology of specialist terminology used in their disciplines.

Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to:

• Perform at entry level in preparation for further studies towards the equivalent of a GCSE qualification;

• Understand how an inflected language works, demonstrate a practical understanding of common grammar terminology and manipulate essential Latin grammar and syntax;

• Demonstrate the acquisition of some basic vocabulary as well as the ability to identify roots and cognates in English and possibly other languages;

• Carry out simple translations from and into Latin, demonstrating an initial  awareness of register, style, etymology and tense rendition;

• Read simple or simplified texts in Latin in order to extract key information on daily-life, religion and literature of the Roman civilisation;

• Study  independently simple aspects of the language , using essential tools such as paper and online grammar reference books and dictionaries;

• Demonstrate awareness in a number of transferable skills such as IT skills, presenting information, taking intercultural differences and language barriers into account, learning independently.

Set Textbook:

• Oxford Latin Course, Part I: Student's Book (2nd Edition), Balme, M. and Morwood, J. (OUP: 1996), ISBN: 978-0199122264.
• Oxford Latin Course, Part 2: Student's Book (2nd Edition), Balme, M. and Morwood, J. (OUP:  1996), ISBN: 978-0199122271.
• Collins Latin Dictionary & Grammar, (COLLINS: 2016), ISBN:978-0008167677

This module can be validated as part of the following schemes:

• Undergraduate degree
• MLTC Confirmation of Attendance or Completion
• Higher Education Achievement Record
• Doctoral Development Programme and Research Training Programme

Assessment:

Important: the method of assessment to be used in 2023-24 is subject to change and the below is for the 2022-23 academic year. This page will be updated with further information in due course.

• Coursework: 10%
• Portfolio: 40%
• Written examination (in the examination period): 50%

Feedback: In addition to on-going individual and collective feedback during class-activities, learners will receive individual written feedback on the three pieces of assessment above.

Latin Timetable