Why We Study LATIN
Perhaps the most obvious difference between classical and modern education is the study of Latin. We are so far removed from this being commonplace in the classroom that most people have no idea why Latin was ever studied at all. It is markedly different from the foreign language classes found in most schools that focus on conversational fluency in languages still spoken. No one speaks Latin as their first language, giving it the mislabel “dead”.
In fact, Latin is quite alive. It is the mother of all western languages and all Western culture. Studying Latin gives students two major benefits: a strong command of English and a well-ordered mind.
It is difficult to truly study one’s own language. We all know that a student can get by without knowing many grammar rules and simply relying on what “sounds right.” Studying any foreign language takes away that crutch and forces a student to actually study and learn. On top of that, English is riddled with inconsistencies and exceptions, making the study of grammar frustrating. Conversely, Latin is incredibly ordered, logical, and grammar-based. Mastering it is mastering language as a whole. Students who understand Latin will understand and command English much better than students who don’t.
Besides grammar, vocabulary is an obvious connection between Latin and English. We use Latin-rooted words every day, and generally, they are the hard words! Knowing Latin roots early helps students understand new, complicated words when they encounter them. They also have a massive head start on the technical language of science, medicine, and law.
Arguably the most important reason to study Latin is the way it forms a students’ mind. Cheryl Lowe writes in her pamphlet, “Latin: The Next Step After Phonics:”
“Studying a disciplined, organized language like Latin helps students learn to think in a more disciplined, organized way. The very nature of the language affects the way students think and write.”
We all know that our culture is full of sloppy thinkers and we are suffering for it. We are not careful or precise in the way we talk or write, and we are vulnerable to the manipulation of words and ideas. Our culture needs people who can think clearly and discern truth from lies.
Latin is not the only remedy, but it is the most effective. In a Christian environment, learning Latin produces a mind that is both sharp and wise. This is what we want for our children; therefore we are willing to do that hard work of teaching them Latin.
Read more:
How Latin Develops the Mind by Cheryl Lowe
This is the education we want for our own children, and we invite you to join us!
Contact us to schedule a parent meeting or apply today.
Liberty Classical School is a full-time, private Christian Classical school in Lincoln, NE. We exist to educate children that they may know and love the truth. We partner with parents to establish men and women who glorify God as loyal servants. We equip our students to be formidable adversaries of falsity and all other enemies of God. We believe that the primary end for education is not merely survival, but glory—glory in the truth and Glory to God—the Father, the Spirit and the Son—on Earth as it is in Heaven. Amen