Listening Listening is an important skill because Latin literature was written to be read aloud. Some teachers find simple conversational Latin to be a helpful tool in developing listening and pronunciation skills. Students should be able to comprehend simple utterances in Latin and respond appropriately. In addition to these four basic skills, Latin study emphasizes cultural understanding and English language skills. An understanding of Roman culture and history increases student insights into Latin reading selections.
Students also gain the ability to evaluate the Roman influence on other civilizations.
The acquisition of linguistic forms and vocabulary is a progressive development through which students perceive Latin's influence upon the English language structure and vocabulary. Through the acquisition of Latin vocabulary, students are introduced to word development, derivatives, and word study in English. Through the acquisition of Latin reading skills, students develop the skills of critical thinking and analytical reading for English. The selection of materials for the advanced levels of Latin will vary with the number of levels offered. In some instances, advanced levels are combined and students progress through a survey of Latin literary works and authors in the third, fourth, and fifth years of Latin studies.