By Grace Wakeling
Yes, Latin is a “dead” language. However, it is not even close to becoming extinct. To be more specific, Latin is no longer fluently spoken in any certain region or country, but it is still used in major literature and is considered a classical language that actually appears all around us on a day to day basis. Although there are possibly hundreds of benefits to studying Latin, here are 10 of my favorite reasons why Latin is the best language to take at Orange Lutheran.
- Latin improves vocabulary.
- Due to the fact that over 60% of English words contain Latin roots, studying Latin results in students gaining a better ability to quickly decipher the meaning of an unknown word by knowing the Latin word that it comes from. Even if the specific definition of a word is still unknown, a Latin student still can make an educated guess based on Latin roots.
- Latin helps develop better grammar.
- Since translating grammar in Latin functions similarly to solving a math problem, it results in Latin students having superior attention to detail and critical thinking skills, according to the University of Kentucky. Latin grammar also contributes to having a much more sophisticated understanding of syntax.
- Studying Latin makes learning other languages easier!
- The Davenant Institution refers to Latin as a “mother language” because every romance language is derived from Latin. The romance languages include French, Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, and Romanian. Therefore, studying Latin acts as a catalyst to becoming multilingual.
- Headstart in certain career paths.
- If you want to pursue any career in the political or medical worlds then Latin is the place for you! Many Latin terms and phrases take root within math and science-related professions. Basically, those of you who seek success in any of these fields should take Latin; just ask Mark Zuckerberg, a Latin learner himself!
- Learning Latin improves reading and writing skills.
- Because Latin students generally have a more advanced vocabulary, they also have a more sophisticated and precise word choice. They have better reading comprehension skills because of techniques learned whilst translating passages of literature from Latin to English.
- Higher SAT and ACT score.
- According to Miss Sampson, OLu’s Latin teacher, Latin is essentially an extremely long SAT preparation course. Of course, since (as I previously mentioned several times) Latin students have an advanced vocabulary, their SAT and ACT scores can be more easily boosted with that extra head start.
- Logic and Problem-solving skills.
- Due to the fact that Latin grammar is comparable to solving a math equation, students form a greater ability to logically problem-solve. These two skills are, in my opinion, the most important life skills that a person can have, so, therefore, Latin actually helps students in a more long term sense rather than solely extending through high school.
- Uniqueness!
- Everybody takes Spanish, so take Latin! In reference to point number 3, studying Latin actually makes learning other languages, including Spanish, easier. Then why not just take Latin and use what you learn from that to become a multilingual, language expert?
- Miss Sampson.
- As a Lancer entering my third year of Latin, I can honestly say that Miss Sampson’s passion for teaching not only the language of Latin but also everything that encompasses it is extremely clear and also inspiring. She genuinely cares for each of her students beyond just their grade or their understanding of Latin, which truly allows for her to stand out. She is an expert at making every student feel comfortable and safe in her classroom while she also encourages a fun and exciting environment. No level of prestige or sophistication is required in order to earn Miss Sampson’s love and support.
- And finally…
- Quidquid Latine Dictum Sit Altum Videtur! Anything in Latin seems profound!
Photo Credits: Story Blocks Video
