Oxford High School

Courses in World Languages - 2007-2008

#     Latin and Origins of Romance Languages I      Full Year    1.0 Credit

This course uses a reading-based approach to introduce students to the basic elements of Latin syntax and semantics and traces those roots through the development of all Romance Languages. The course includes vocabulary, English words from Latin roots, broad topics in basic grammar (i.e. subject, verb, parts of speech), classical mythology, Roman history and other cultural topics. This course will help students understand their own language better and provide a solid foundation for the study of all Romance languages.

1. Enduring Understandings (broad ideas, usually grounded in the discipline):

• Communication:  As the world moves toward a global community, it is increasingly important for World Language study to result in proficiencies that enable students to engage in conversations, interpret authentic materials and express concepts in a language other than their own. This is accomplished through study of modern or classical languages.
• Cultures:  The sharing and learning about customs and products increase students’ understanding of the cultural perspectives that generate patterns of behavior, ways of life, world views, and contributions in the multiple countries and regions where the language is spoken.This is accomplished through study of modern or classical languages.
• Connections:  As students increase their proficiency in another language, they acquire skills which empower them to gain knowledge in other disciplines and sensitivity to a variety of viewpoints in the cultures of the target language. This is accomplished through study of modern or classical languages.
• Comparisons:  Students develop their critical thinking ability as they become aware of the similarities and differences between their first and subsequent languages.  In so doing, they gain new perspectives regarding their own language and culture. This is accomplished through study of modern or classical languages.
• Communities:  Learning a World Language opens doors to a greater variety of career options, increased lifelong learning opportunities, and enhanced leisure activities. This is accomplished through study of modern or classical languages.

2. Course Specific Goals (aligned with Content Standards):

3. Expected Performances (aligned with state Expected Performances):

 Latin and Origins of Romance Languages I :  Scope and Sequence Calendar