Section 5

SPECIFIC ISSUES IN LATIN TEACHING

Language awareness courses

There are various perceptions of language awareness. At present some language awareness courses are being offered to S1 and/or S2 pupils, either as a precursor to Latin, or as a taster course within a timetable block.

The insight afforded by Latin can make a major and possibly unique contribution to pupils' language awareness by highlighting the element of change in language: that languages have a history, just as other aspects of our culture have a history, and that language is constantly evolving. This is made clear by the study of Latin derivatives in English and other modern European languages. Such study is an integral part of Latin and helps pupils to increase their vocabulary.

These issues also have relevance for liaison between primary and secondary schools. Where the opportunity arises it may be possible for Latin teachers to discuss with primary class teachers their approaches to, and pupils' experience of, language and/or cultural awareness. This type of liaison opportunity can help to smooth the transition for pupils from primary to secondary school and pave the way to the study of specific subjects.

Resources

Classroom resources

Adequate resources should be made available to ensure that the classroom environment is as positive and stimulating as possible. As well as textbooks, a wide variety of reference materials, including dictionaries, should be available to teachers and pupils. Teachers should be able to catch pupils' interest by providing other varied materials such as displays of maps, posters and pupils' work.

Learning outwith the classroom

The study of Latin can be greatly enhanced by making use of resources outwith the classroom. The local or school library is a valuable asset and visits to sites, museums and galleries can provide learning opportunities based on direct experience. The inseparability of language and culture is perhaps most effectively illustrated by such visits, when pupils can see real objects or assess different types of written evidence. Pupils who are encouraged to use museums and galleries as part of their learning are more likely to develop appreciation of their value in later life.

Technological resources

As modern technology has more and more to offer language teaching and learning, schools should adapt courses to take advantage of the range of materials available; Classics teachers should keep abreast of new technology as it becomes more widely provided and accessible within and outwith the school. Computer assisted teaching and learning in the classroom is a way of ensuring diversity of approach and of maintaining motivation: for example, word processors can allow pupils to redraft text and analyse language; databanks can be used as additional reference materials for background or language work; and software can be developed for reinforcement and self-testing in vocabulary and grammar. Video and audio equipment can also add considerably to the learning process: films of archaeological sites or audio tapes of Roman myths are two examples.

Teachers as a resource

Many Latin teachers are single person departments who will wish to review their present S1/S2 Latin courses and resources in the light of the attainment targets. Schools and education authorities should make every effort to co-ordinate the valuable work being done by individual teachers who are devising or adapting materials to accommodate changing demands in Latin.