Presented this evening by Ms. Jenny Mykytenko Salvete Parentes! Hello Parents! Welcome to the Grade VII Latin Open House! Presented this evening by Ms. Jenny Mykytenko

Educational Background and career choice BA in Classics (Latin & Ancient Greek) from College of the Holy Cross, Worcester, MA MS in Education from Mount St. Mary College, Newburgh, NY MA in Teaching and Foundations, Fairfield U Why teach Latin? Why middle school? - Sharing my passion/knowledge with others; helping young minds grow

Advantages of Latin The stereotype = One has to be smart to take Latin; The reality = Latin helps one become smarter Lifelong skills, including 21st century skills [promotes higher order thinking… problem-solving, critical thinking (e.g. deductive/reasoning skills), reflecting, communication, metacognitive opportunities, etc.] Improves or enhances numerous academic skills (vocabulary, reading, writing) Interdisciplinary benefits Latin-English connections: Derivatives (e.g. transportation, video, fidelity) Latin is the basis for the Romance languages (Italian, French, Spanish, Portuguese, Romanian) Allows us to better understand ourselves, as we compare and contrast our own culture with the Roman culture Sententiae Antiquae – Latin in everyday use Making personal and meaningful connections

Curriculum: Approach, Content, and Outcomes Vocabulary, Grammar, and Culture Cohesive and pragmatic unit design. Primary Textbook = Cambridge Latin Series, Unit 1 (supplemental to and aligned with teacher made unit packets) *Teacher developed units go above and beyond material found in the primary textbook. The unit packets students receive typically include vocabulary lists, derivative practice, grammar explanation and related exercises specific to each unit, story comprehension questions, and a review sheet for the test. Students will receive hand-outs from time to time, in addition to the packets themselves. These papers are to be kept in their binders throughout the year and serve as additional resources and learning guides.

Curriculum: Approach, Content, and Outcomes continued… Cumulative approach (sequential and progressive) Culture: Roman world (stories set in Pompeii and get to explore Roman entertainment, education, customs) Grammar: continued understanding of the language structure; more complex sentences… Ex. panem pistores laeti in urbe cotidie vendunt. (The happy bakers sell bread in the city every day.) Latin is an inflected language. Attention to detail, patterns, and endings is key (also, there are no articles) Understanding of Terminology (e.g. declension, conjugation) An emphasis on translation and comprehension skills *Benchmark Assessments 3X a year to demonstrate student growth*

Activities and More Opportunities for group work/cooperative tasks Student ownership of learning and accountability Creative and relevant projects National Latin Exam Intro Level Use of laptops/technology as an educational tool Games Educational Videos Different learning styles taken into account… Sing songs, perform skits, illustrate ideas

8th grade placement Latin 8 or Advanced Latin 8 Traditional pace versus a more in depth experience with the content and material Taken into account for placement = Student performance on a qualifier exam (other factors include scores on unit assessments, work ethic, and determination) Everybody learns differently and at different paces. 8th grade placement is about the most suitable academic placement for each individual (i.e. Teachers carefully look at the evidence to place each student into the level where he/she is likely to feel most comfortable and meet with the most academic success). Decisions will be made in the second half of the year

Tips for succeeding in Latin Maintain good study habits Pay attention in class, study every day, be willing to learn from mistakes Consistency! Develop a study routine/schedule (e.g. 10-vocab/10-concept review/20-homework) Make or utilize resources: add post-its to textbook, Quizlet, study buddy sessions Strategies: flashcards, sing to learn, consider what works well in other classes and apply here Seek extra help if applicable

Grading and Expectations Come to class prepared Be respectful Homework consistency and completion Maintain good study habits/Keep up with vocab… finding the “right” strategies Quizzes/checks for understanding on important concepts leading up to tests at the end of each unit. Tests given approximately every few weeks. Tests must be signed. **Please visit my homework website!** Extra help can be arranged if needed Grades viewable via Powerschool Portal

Contact information E-mail address = jenny.mykytenko@ncps-k12.org I believe strongly in working together to create a positive personal experience and successful academic year for your child! 

Your child is participating in an exciting, ongoing legacy! The Roman world = an essential piece of the past Latin students = an essential piece of the future

Thank you for coming this evening! Multas Gratias et Valete Omnes!