Latin instruction is a core element in the classical school curriculum, and for good reason. Not only does it help increase cognition and improve understanding of other languages (including English), it is also the mode by which we understand the classics. The ultimate goal of Stonehaven's Latin program is to equip students to read these classics in their original language. Imagine being able to read Virgil's Aeneid or Ovid's Metamorphoses in the original Latin! Or reading Julius Caesar's own words in The Conquest of Gaul.
Unfortunately, Latin instruction has earned an intimidating reputation over the years. There is no doubt that learning Latin involves memorization and careful attention to detail. At Stonehaven, however, we move beyond vocabulary lists and declension charts, using stories and spoken Latin to learn the language inductively. If you were to visit one of our Latin classes, you would see both teacher and students using Latin in a relaxed and fun learning environment.
Latin instruction begins in 3rd Grade at Stonehaven, raising the question of how students who come to Stonehaven after 3rd Grade can “catch up” if they have not thus far been exposed to Latin. While our teachers aim to teach in such a way that they are always circling back to elementary grammar and vocabulary, there is nevertheless still some onus on students and families to help them prepare to succeed in Latin at Stonehaven. To this end, Stonehaven teachers work with families of students who enter Stonehaven after 3rd Grade to help incoming students complete a remediation program over the summer prior to beginning at Stonehaven.