What is the course about?
On this course you will learn to read Latin, from a course book, and by studying original Latin inscriptions from the British Museum Collection. The course is delivered at the British Museum.
What will we cover?
We will be following the textbook Reading Latin - a textbook designed for adults learners, with texts based on original Latin sources, starting at the beginning, reading adapted texts of works by the comic writer Plautus. We shall be studying the conjugation of verbs, the declension of nouns and adjectives. We will study a selection of original Latin inscriptions from the British Museum Collection, with the aid of Latin Inscriptions, by Dirk Booms (British Museum Press 2001).
What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...
to read and translate simple phrases in Latin, and understand the context of and read a small selection of original Latin inscriptions.
What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?
This course is suitable if you have completed the Latin: an introduction for absolute beginners course - RLM008 (2018/19) or RLM003 (2019/20) - or have an equivalent level of ability in Latin. As this course is taught in English, you should be able to follow verbal and written instructions in English and also take part in class and group activities.
How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?
The course will combine classroom work with the study of original inscriptions in Latin from the British Museum Collection, including regular gallery visits. The classroom-based activities will follow the traditional approach but will aim at a high level of student interaction with pair and group work. Students are expected to participate in the activities and to do homework every week.
Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?
Photocopies of the Reading Latin textbook will be supplied. However if you wish to purchase the books in advance of the course (recommended) these are the book details: Reading Latin: Grammar and Exercises (Second Edition 2016 ISBN 9781107632264); Reading Latin: Text and Vocabulary (Second Edition 2016 ISBN 9781107618701); and Reading Latin: an Independent Study Guide (Second Edition 2017 ISBN: 9781107615601). A limited number of these textbooks are available in the City Lit Student Centre and Library. Please also purchase a copy of Latin Inscriptions, by Dirk Booms (British Museum Press 2001).
Please note that at busy times there may be a queue at Security on entering the Museum. If you bring along a print out of your enrolment for the course and show this to the gate staff, they will do a bag search for you as you enter the gate (ie you will not have to queue for so long). You might also consider coming in by the North Entrance, which often has a shorter queue.
When I've finished, what course can I do next?
A progression course at the British Museum or at City Lit. The tutor will be able to advise you.
General information and advice on courses at City Lit is available from the Student Centre and Library on Monday to Friday from 12:00 – 19:00.
See the course guide for term dates and further details
