Wheelock's Latin : Chapters 1-15 Lectures from Udemy

What's inside

Learning objectives

A thorough mastery of elementary latin grammar

Additional insight into english grammar and vocabulary

A thorough mastery of elementary latin grammar
Additional insight into english grammar and vocabulary

Syllabus

First Things

Summary

We don't know exactly how classical Latin would have been pronounced, but some conjectures are better than others. In this lecture, I quickly go over the basic agreements of reconstructed classical Latin. You may wonder why we should bother. It's a dead language. True, but trying to pronounce the Latin in front of you really does speed up your mastery. And conversely, over the years I've discovered the truism that those who don't pronounce Latin out loud don't learn it. Fact.

Tips on establishing a healthy study routine (i.e. how not to waste time). Sorry about the noise at the beginning. I was adjusting the mic.

Summary

Latin verbs change their person and number by adding suffixes to the stem. These suffixes correspond to English personal pronouns. Verbs can also show commands and infinitives by changing the ending.

Latin verbs are divided into conjugations depending on the vowel that ends the verbal stem. A verb whose stem ends in ā is a first conjugation verb; a verb whose stem ends in ē is a second conjugation verb.

I'm keeping up this very old lecture from when I was teaching Latin as a little extra practice if you think you need it. -bl

The "Forms and Concepts" file for each chapter helps you get a clear idea of what's been covered in the chapter: new forms and new concepts. As you record your new forms, be sure that you include all long marks. Express the new concepts and terms in your own words. These two together -- forms and concepts -- will provide you an invaluable resource for drilling and for reviewing.

I read through the sentences from the Optional Self Tutorials so you can get more experience pronouncing Latin. The file has just the audio. You'll want to follow along in the book.

There is a comprehensive, chapter-by-chapter set of exercises at the end of the book called "Self-Help Tutorials." These excellent drills give you the chance to review and test your knowledge of the chapter material, and yet many student skip over them.

In my lectures on the Self-Tutorials, I help you get started in the exercises my reviewing the major concepts of the chapter and doing a couple of the sentences for you. Please don't hurry through these chapter reviews or pass them by altogether. They are time very well spent.

I ramble a little at the beginning . . . The sentences start at 1:15 if you want to skip all that.

Summary

Summary

Case endings give Latin a very flexible word order by our standards. Generally, however, a Latin sentence will be constructed thus: Subject -- Object -- Verb.

Summary

Summary

sum
es
est

sumus
estis
sunt

esse

Summary

A word in the nominative case need not be the subject of a verb. It may be linked to the subject via a linking (aka, copulative) verb, such as "to be." A nominative thus used is called a "predicate nominative."

Summary

As in English, an adjective in Latin may be used as a noun: the wealthy, the poor, etc. When used thus, the syntax is called a "substantive" use of an adjective, or we may say that the adjective is being used as a substantive.

Summary

Just as there are nouns belonging to the second declension whose nominative ends in -er, so also there are first and second declension adjectives that use the -er termination in the masculine nominative singular.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Develops a thorough mastery of elementary Latin grammar, providing a solid foundation for further study

Provides additional insight into the complexities of English grammar and vocabulary

Builds a strong foundation for intermediate Latin studies

Taught by Ben Lugosch, an experienced Latin instructor

Covers key concepts in Latin grammar, with a focus on the Wheelock textbook

Offers guided practice exercises to reinforce understanding

Reviews summary

Essential supplement for wheelock's latin

According to learners, this course is an indispensable supplement for anyone using the Wheelock's Latin textbook, particularly beneficial for self-learners. Students frequently praise the instructor's clear explanations, especially how he breaks down complex grammar concepts and effectively connects them to English grammar. The course is highlighted for its valuable guidance on self-tutorial exercises and its practical focus on classical Latin pronunciation. While overwhelmingly positive, a few learners noted that it is not a standalone course and explicitly requires the Wheelock's textbook. Some older reviews mentioned inconsistent audio quality in earlier lectures, though this appears to have improved over time.

Earlier lectures had some audio inconsistencies, which improved.

"Sometimes the audio quality was a bit inconsistent, but overall it's a solid resource."

"Audio quality was also an issue for some older lectures."

"The earlier lectures had some audio issues but it seemed to improve in later chapters."

Helpful assistance with the textbook's self-tutorial exercises.

"It really helps with the self-tutorial exercises when you're stuck."

"I appreciated... the readings of the self-tutorial sentences."

"The self-tutorial discussions are golden."

Instructor's passion and expertise make learning Latin engaging.

"The instructor's pacing is perfect, and his passion for the subject is infectious."

"The instructor clearly knows his stuff and the breakdown of chapters aligns well with Wheelock's."

"An absolute lifesaver for anyone using Wheelock's. The instructor's passion and clarity are outstanding."

"Solid lectures. The instructor's knowledge is evident."

Complex Latin and English grammar concepts are made clear.

"The explanations of English grammar were especially helpful, making Latin concepts much clearer."

"The deep dives into grammar, particularly how English grammar connects to Latin, are a game-changer."

"The explanations are incredibly clear, especially for difficult topics like the third declension. The instructor makes complex grammar accessible."

"The instructor breaks down complex concepts into understandable chunks. His explanations of English grammar for Latin application are brilliant."

An indispensable guide for tackling Wheelock's Latin textbook.

"Absolutely indispensable! As someone trying to learn Latin with Wheelock's on my own, these lectures filled all the gaps."

"A fantastic aid for Wheelock's! ... Highly recommended for any Wheelock's user."

"This course is the best way to tackle Wheelock's. I'm a self-learner and this course has made all the difference."

"Perfect complement to Wheelock's! His explanations... are brilliant. Highly recommended for independent learners."

This course is a supplement and cannot stand alone.

"If you don't have the book, this is pretty useless."

"This isn't a standalone course, but it excels at what it sets out to do: complement the textbook."

"Not what I expected. I bought this thinking it was a full Latin course. It's really just someone reading through the Wheelock's book with commentary."

"Make sure you have the Wheelock's book!"

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Wheelock's Latin : Chapters 1-15 Lectures with these activities:

Organize Your Notes and Materials

Show steps

Having your notes and materials organized will help you to study more efficiently. Take some time to organize your notes, handouts, and other materials.

Show steps

Gather all of your notes, handouts, and other materials.
Organize your materials by chapter.
Create a study schedule.
Review your materials regularly.

Form a Study Group

Show steps

Studying with a group of peers can help you to learn the material more effectively. You can quiz each other, discuss the concepts, and help each other to understand difficult material.

Show steps

Find a group of peers who are also taking this course.
Meet regularly to study the material.
Quiz each other.
Discuss the concepts.
Help each other to understand difficult material.

Read Wheelock's Latin

Show steps

This book is the foundation for this course. Reading this book prior to the start of the course will provide you a thorough review of the content that we will cover in this online course.

View Melania on Amazon

Show steps

Read the assigned chapters before each class session.
Take notes as you read.
Complete the exercises at the end of each chapter.

Four other activities

Expand to see all activities and additional details

Show all seven activities

Watch the Lecture Videos

Show steps

These videos provide a clear and concise review of the material covered in each chapter. Watching these videos will help you to understand the concepts more deeply.

Show steps

Watch the lecture videos for each chapter as they are assigned.
Take notes as you watch.
Review the videos as needed.

Create a Latin Grammar Cheat Sheet

Show steps

This project will help you to summarize the key concepts of Latin grammar. As you create the cheat sheet, you will need to identify the most important rules and then write a clear and concise explanation of each rule.

Show steps

Identify the most important rules of Latin grammar.
Write a clear and concise explanation of each rule.
Organize the rules in a logical order.
Review your cheat sheet and make any necessary corrections.

Complete the Self-Help Tutorials

Show steps

These exercises provide you with an opportunity to practice the concepts you are learning in class. Completing these exercises will help you to solidify your understanding of the material.

Show steps

Complete the exercises for each chapter as they are assigned.
Check your answers against the answer key.
Review the exercises that you missed.

Create a Latin-English Dictionary

Show steps

This project will help you to develop a deeper understanding of Latin vocabulary. As you create the dictionary, you will need to look up the meaning of each word and then write a clear and concise definition.

Show steps

Choose a list of Latin words to include in your dictionary.
Look up the meaning of each word.
Write a clear and concise definition for each word.
Organize the words in alphabetical order.
Review your dictionary and make any necessary corrections.

Career center

Learners who complete Wheelock's Latin : Chapters 1-15 Lectures will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Interpreter

Interpreters translate spoken words from one language to another. Wheelock's Latin : Chapters 1-15 Lectures may be useful by teaching you how to read, write, and speak Latin. This will be essential for your work as a translator.

See salaries and explore the career path for Interpreter

Translator

Translators convert written or spoken text from one language to another. Wheelock's Latin : Chapters 1-15 Lectures may be useful by teaching you how to read, write, and speak Latin. This will be essential for your work as a translator.

See salaries and explore the career path for Translator

Professor

Professors teach and conduct research at colleges and universities. Wheelock's Latin : Chapters 1-15 Lectures may be helpful in giving you a solid foundation in Latin, which will make it easier for you to succeed in your studies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Professor

Teacher

In your new role as a Teacher, you will likely spend a great deal of time educating, and conveying information to young students. Wheelock's Latin : Chapters 1-15 Lectures may be useful for in developing and practicing strong communication skills. You will likely use these skills when working on lesson plans, communicating with parents and guardians, and giving directions to students.

See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher

Archivist

Archivists are tasked with the preservation and organization of historical documents. Wheelock's Latin : Chapters 1-15 Lectures may be useful for in building a strong understanding of language—specifically Latin. That skill may come in handy when deciphering old texts found in archives.

See salaries and explore the career path for Archivist

Editor

Editors review, correct, and improve written content. Wheelock's Latin : Chapters 1-15 Lectures may be useful for you in multiple ways. It will help you strengthen your reading comprehension skills. It will also teach you how to clearly and effectively communicate in writing.

See salaries and explore the career path for Editor

Lawyer

Lawyers advise and represent clients in legal matters. Wheelock's Latin : Chapters 1-15 Lectures may be useful to you by helping to build your communication skills, both written and verbal. This will be important for you when presenting arguments in court or negotiating with opposing counsel.

See salaries and explore the career path for Lawyer

Speechwriter

Speechwriters write speeches for politicians and other public figures. Wheelock's Latin : Chapters 1-15 Lectures may be useful by helping you to develop your writing skills and to learn how to effectively communicate your ideas to others. These are key skills for speechwriters, who must be able to write speeches that are both informative and engaging.

See salaries and explore the career path for Speechwriter

Museum curator

Museum curators plan and organize museum exhibits and maintain collections. Wheelock's Latin : Chapters 1-15 Lectures may be helpful for you by helping you to build a foundation of classical language skills. This may help you if you work in a museum with artifacts from ancient Rome.

See salaries and explore the career path for Museum curator

Historian

Historians research, analyze, interpret, and write about the past. Wheelock's Latin : Chapters 1-15 Lectures may be useful by helping you strengthen your analytical skills, and teaching you how to make deductions and interpretations based on what you read. These are necessary skills for a Historian.

See salaries and explore the career path for Historian

Writer

Writers create written content, such as books, articles, and scripts. Wheelock's Latin : Chapters 1-15 Lectures may be useful to you in various ways. Primarily, it will help you to improve your writing skills. It will also help you expand your vocabulary and strengthen your written communication skills.

See salaries and explore the career path for Writer

Politician

Politicians make and enforce laws. Wheelock's Latin : Chapters 1-15 Lectures may be useful by teaching you how to effectively communicate your ideas to others, both verbally and in writing. This is a key skill for politicians, who must be able to persuade others to support their policies.

See salaries and explore the career path for Politician

Journalist

Journalists research, write, and report on news and current events for newspapers, magazines, and websites. Wheelock's Latin : Chapters 1-15 Lectures may be useful by teaching you how to clearly and concisely communicate your ideas in writing. It will also help you to develop and strengthen your critical thinking skills.

See salaries and explore the career path for Journalist

Librarian

Librarians help library users find books and other library materials. Wheelock's Latin : Chapters 1-15 Lectures may be helpful for you by improving your reading comprehension and helping you learn how to find and organize information. These are skills which would benefit you in a library setting.

See salaries and explore the career path for Librarian

Public Relations Specialist

Public relations specialists manage the public image of organizations and individuals. Wheelock's Latin : Chapters 1-15 Lectures may be helpful by teaching you how to clearly and effectively communicate your ideas in writing. This is a key skill for public relations specialists, who must be able to write press releases, speeches, and other materials.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public Relations Specialist