LATIN I A
GRADING POLICY AND COURSE DESCRIPTION
Marshall Middle School
Magistra Byrnes
2013-2014
Grades in this class are based on the following criteria:
HOMEWORK ASSIGNMENTS {PENSA}: Completed and accurate homework
assignments vary in point amounts, depending upon the length and importance of the
assignment. Not all assignments will necessarily be given points. We will often go over and
correct assignments in class on the due date. On occasion, I will collect the homework
assignments. Full credit can be earned for completed work turned in on time; half credit for up
to one day late; no credit after one day unless due to absence.
Nota Bene: Homework includes vocabulary flashcards.
QUIZZES {PROBATIONES}: 10- 30 points; will usually be within a review unit or stage in the
textbook to check understanding while work is in progress: reading comprehension,
grammatical concepts {charts / endings} etc. – usually one day’s notice is given – rarely will the
quiz be a “pop” quiz during the class, although we may have a few!
TESTS {INTERROGATIONES}:
 Vocabulary/Derivatives Tests - 40-55 points –Test date is given upon receiving the vocabulary
and derivatives to ensure adequate time for studying – usually one week after receiving the new
vocabulary list.
 Stage Tests – 50-100 points – A notice of at least three days ahead is given for Stage Tests and a
“Need to Know” outline for the Stage test is provided at that time. Stage Tests may be divided
over two-day periods of time.
 Final Exam – 100 points – comprehensive final exam at the end of the course.
PROJECTS {PENSA LONGA}: 10 -35 points – in Latin or English, responses to readings in
textbook, visual prompts, cultural background, notebook checks, short essays or journal entries.
Grading is according to a rubric based on specific criteria {i.e. points of grammar, sentence structure}
GRADING POLICY:
Grades follow the district’s percentage range:
A 100% to 90%
C 79 to 70%
B 89- 80%
D 69- 60%
E 59% and below
Any student who does not earn at least 75% in Latin 1-A will not be recommended for a second year
course. (World Language Department policy). Students who maintain at least an 85% grade,
cumulative, will be recommended for the Honors Latin 1-B course next year.
COURSE SYLLABUS
Program of Studies Description: In the Latin 1A course, the students will use the Cambridge Latin
Course, Unit I text (4th edition). The emphasis of the course is reading proficiency, so the students will
be reading many stories, very short at first, but progressively more demanding throughout the text. The
book is divided into 12 stages (similar to chapters). Each stage will last approximately three weeks.
Full year / Full time Text:
The Cambridge Latin Course, Unit II Stages 13-20
Each stage follows a similar pattern:
1. Model sentences which introduce new materials to the students with an inductive approach.
2. Readings-stories about a Pompeian family, based on an individual who owned property in
and around Pompeii in the first century, AD.
3. New grammatical concepts-usually focusing on nouns and verbs in alternating stages.
4. New vocabulary-students will be responsible for the vocabulary in the check lists at the end
of each stage and English derivatives based on some of the words.
5. Cultural Background-information about the particular aspect of ancient life in the Roman
Empire-particularly in Pompeii.
Stage activities may include {but are not limited to}:
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a quiz on the content of a story or stories.
A Vocabulary Tests which also will include English derivatives of the Latin words.
a Stage Test – grammar, reading, culture & translation
at least one recitation, dialogue, dictation or composition
culture readings, notes, and worksheets
MATERIALS NEEDED:
 textbook – YOU must keep it covered at all times and free of handouts!
 a section dedicated to Latin in your binder OR a separate binder
 writing utensils (please use a pencil on class assignments unless indicated otherwise)
 note cards for vocabulary flashcards {approximately 250} AND something to keep them
contained in {a plastic or cardboard box – this will save you from losing them all of the time!
Keep this at home in a designated place!}
 Skinny Markers or Colored Pencils (Keep these at home to use)
In addition to classroom materials, please come to class with the 3 A’s:
 Attendance – this includes being on time to class
 Attention – eyes front, appear to be listening and involved
 Attitude – head up, on task, no disruptions or social conversations
Nota Bene: I-pods, music players, or cell phones are not permitted out during class time.
No exceptions! They will be confiscated!
JCL {Junior Classical League} – Latin students have a wonderful extracurricular experience when
they become active in our North Allegheny Chapter of JCL. Meetings are usually held on the third
Tuesday evening of each month. JCL students can attend the state convention, meet with Latin students
at all levels, and on occasion, dress up in togas! Sign-up forms will be available within the first few
weeks of school. Dues are about $7.00, which cover national, state, and local fees.
The best way to contact me is email: rbyrnes@northallegheny.org
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Please sign and return. gratiās tibi agō!
We have read the grading policy and course description for Latin I B.
Student signature:
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Parent / Guardian signature(s):
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