Boston Latin Academy

The World Languages Department at Boston Latin Academy consists of a classics division and a foreign language section.

INTRODUCTION

The Classics Department offers a required 4 year sequence of courses for students entering in grade 7 and a 3 year sequence for those entering in grade 9. It also offers the possibility to all students of following an accelerated course of study (Honors) beginning in Grade 8 (Grade 10 for B students), culminating in Advanced Placement Vergil for Grade 11 (or 12 for B students) and Advanced Placement Latin Literature in Grade 12. Ancient Greek is also offered as a junior/senior elective.

Although the study of Latin is primarily concerned with language, the course offerings include units on Classical mythology, history and politics, geography, and culture. It is our belief that the study of Latin needs to be set in its context, and that the content of the assigned readings can best be appreciated through the development of an understanding of Roman society, history and habits of thought. Classicists have been pioneers in developing the Internet as a resource for information, so that students are able to carry out both web-based and text-based research for their projects on topics ranging from the Roman army to the study of language and literature, including Greek culture and society as well.

The study of Latin is rigorous, demanding time and effort from the students. However, the rewards are worthwhile. All Grade 10 students are best prepared to take the SAT II Latin achievement test at the end of that year. Students in Advanced Placement classes take rigorous examinations in May. The challenging nature of these courses, and our high rate of success, make our students stronger applicants to very selective colleges and universities. Sophomores and juniors should be aware as they select courses for senior year that, if they are performing well academically, the Advanced Placement course may be selected.

We administer the National Latin examination, National Greek Examination, the National Mythology Examination, and the Medusa Mythology Examination to selected students each year. High scores on these tests may qualify students for scholarships, prizes, and make an impressive entry on a college application. Educators and college admissions personnel know that the study of Latin helps students achieve higher language scores on the SAT I and develops overall intellectual skills and discipline.

What do we do for fun? Many things! We run a series of intramural clubs such as the Classics Club and Certamen Club in which we groom students for written and oral competitions. Students have been successful both at the state and at national levels. The school has a very large and active chapter in the Massachusetts Junior Classical League and the National Junior Classical League. In recognition of the fact that our students can compete successfully with anyone anywhere, and that competition and socialization are an important part of learning, we participate every year in state and national events. See the Classics Club website for more information.