The study of Latin at Eton School is designed to provide a foundations course in classical studies as well as an opportunity to discover the mystery and excitement of unraveling a foreign language in general and one that is the basis of the Romance languages in particular. Course content becomes more challenging as the students progress. National academic competitions and a yearly regional Junior Classical League Convention are an integral part of the Latin program. Additional elements of the curriculum include: current usage of Latin phrases, mottoes, abbreviations et cetera; the study of Roman and Greek mythology, culture and civilization; art projects, games and celebrations.

The goals of the Latin Program are threefold:
1. To provide an introduction to Latin so that students become comfortable with using the language as a genuine and spontaneous means of communication through speaking, writing and reading elementary Latin and to enhance general language learning techniques.
2. To develop an awareness of the culture of the Romans and varied aspects of Roman history to gain perspective on the influence and contributions the classical world has made on our own.
3. To improve English language skills in areas of vocabulary, syntax and grammar and to strengthen critical thinking skills.

4th Grade
The focus of fourth grade studies includes vocabulary building using Latin and Greek root words and a general introduction to classical civilization and mythology. The Greek and Latin alphabets and numeric systems are part of this curriculum.

5th Grade
Students use the First Latin text to explore more deeply, the Roman civilization, its language, mythology and the legacy of this ancient civilization. They begin their study of Sententiae, that is, Latin phrases and abbreviations used in the English language today. Homers Iliad is also an emphasis.

6th, 7th and 8th Grades
Latin students in these grades use the Cambridge Latin Course, Unit 1, as their text. Its purpose is to introduce students to the elementary aspects of Latin grammar and Roman culture, through a reading-based language course. Students continue their study of Sententiae and read Homers Odyssey in the 6th, and Vergils Aeneid in the 7th and 8th.

Advanced Latin
Students may select this class as a language option in the 7th and 8th grades. Using the text, Ecce Romani, students immerse themselves deeply into Latin grammar and syntax. This class moves at a rapid pace and students are expected to do independent work.

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