This sixth-month programme consists of six individual learning modules. Each module will consist of eight lessons spread over four weeks. The focus of these modules is three-fold: 1) to introduce you in a relaxed way to the essential grammar of the Latin language (from the basics of noun declensions to the subjunctive uses of verbs); 2) to build your Latin vocabulary (to something around 2,000 words at the end of the six modules); and 3) to learn to enjoy reading basic Latin texts. The last of these is most important. Grammar is not an end in itself but helps us understand texts in a more accurate manner and to become more fluent. The grammar which you will learn roughly follows the order prescribed by Shelmerdine’s Introduction to Latin, which will serve as textbook throughout the modules. In addition to the translation and grammar exercises she provides, I will provide you with tailored ‘modernised’ Latin passages, including passages from The Lord of the Rings, Harry Potter, and other literary and historical works. In a given week, the basic idea is for the first lesson to be more instructional, focused on explaining key grammatical constructions, while the second lesson will take the form of a workshop, where we will translate passages together, and where I can help answer questions from homework assignments.

The path to language proficiency lies in making many mistakes (and not being ashamed of these) and in extensive daily practice.