Latin
- Offered from 8th – 12th grade
- Dual enrollment and AP are offered in alternate years
Course Description
Latin exposes students to the world of the ancient Romans and the Latin language through readings of Roman history or mythology. This exposure lays the foundation to gain an appreciation for Roman contributions to Western civilization and to increase students’ understanding of English grammar and syntax, which improves reading comprehension and writing skills. Students focus on similarities between Latin and English (e.g., derivatives, government, architecture, etc.).
Not only are grammar, syntax, and vocabulary the building blocks for acquiring the ability to read and comprehend Latin but they are also taught through readings in English and in Latin, structured practice, as well as presentations and projects. Examples of projects include, but are not limited to, acrylic and oil, embroidery, mosaics, pen and ink, and posters that promote connections to the Latin language or Roman culture.
Why Study Latin?
Do you like:
- puzzles?
- making connections between words?
- mythology?
- history?
- to be creative?
- to compete?
- field trips?
Students Who Learn Latin
- Improve their vocabulary and grammar
- Do better on standardized tests
- Improve their critical thinking skills
- Have an easier time learning Romance languages
- Develop a greater understanding of the English language
- Understand connection between Western civilization and ancient Rome
Latin Students Have the Opportunity To
- join Junior Classical League (JCL) - an organization that allows Latin students to compete in academics, arts, and athletics
- take the National Latin Exam (NLE) - a test given annually to Latin students across the United States and around the world
- earn medals and ribbons
- add to their resume
- earn a Seal of Biliteracy
What career field can I get into after studying Latin?
- doctor
- lawyer
- nurse
- pharmacist
- dentist
- podiatrist
- occupational therapist
- physical therapist
- scientist
- researcher
- analyst
- manager
- archivist
- curator
- historian
- librarian
- editor
- writer
- publisher
- journalist
- consultant
- producer
- lobbyist
- designer
- and many others
Skills Acquired from Studying Latin
- contextualizing evidence
- extrapolating when evidence is lacking
- seeing patterns and making connections
- analyzing data and texts
- memorizing and organizing data
- constructing persuasive arguments, written or verbal
- situating ideas within a larger discourse
- facility with English grammar and syntax
- revising ideas in light of new evidence
- thinking in an interdisciplinary manner
- working with people in other fields
- understanding and taking into account multiple perspective
- translating ideas for different contexts.
Student Reflections on Studying Latin
"The biggest reason that taking Latin for 5 years with Ms. Marable taught me that I can actually do hard things. I can figure out the last interesting thing to note in my sentence if I look through my notes one more time. I can memorize the numerous noun endings with Marable's catchy songs, and most importantly I can avoid being eaten by Marable's sharks if I play quiet mouse with myself for 10 minutes. Overall, I learned that I can turn an "I can't do this" into an "I can do this" if I take a deep breath and use another one of the million chances that Marable generously gives her students (because she loves you guys)." —Olivia Cass, Class of 2023Although the nights were late and translating was the last thing I wanted to do, I am so glad I pushed through it all. Six years of Latin didn’t just teach me how to conjugate and decline, it forced me to grow mentally and improved my English grammar so much. Latin has also taught me that the best way to avoid flaming cockroaches and immense toenail pain, is to be honest and willing to talk to Ms. Marable, she will listen and do everything she can to help you. JCL has also been one of the highlights of my high school experience. I cannot put into words how special the bonds are between JCLers and how much fun conventions are. Even though my friends and family make fun of me for taking a 'dead' language, there is no other language I would rather take." —Sadye Prebus, Class of 2023
Resources
Meet Latin Teacher Maria Marable
My love for both math and Latin began in high school, where I was actively involved in Math Team and the Junior Classical League (JCL). Those early experiences shaped my path and led me to Vanderbilt University, where I majored in Classics (Latin) and Secondary Education and minored in Mathematics.
I’ve now spent more than twenty-five years teaching in Metro Nashville Public Schools, and I truly enjoy helping students discover the richness of the Latin language and the connections it has to the world around them. I also sponsor our school’s JCL chapter, which allows me to share my enthusiasm for classics beyond the classroom.
I stay connected to the broader teaching community through my involvement in professional organizations such as ACL, CAMWS, and TWLTA, where I’ve had the opportunity to serve on the board.
When I’m not teaching, you can usually find me with a good book, working on a scrapbook, spending time with friends, or getting in a fun Jazzercise workout.
Yearly Latin Events
2026 State Latin Convention
Ten students represented our school at the State Latin Convention held at Austin Peay State University in Clarksville on April 10–11, 2026. Competing against approximately 200 students from 18 schools, our students achieved impressive results, placing in the top five in six academic contests as well as in both creative and graphic arts categories. Their strong performance contributed to MLK earning an overall 4th place finish in the AA division.
Examples of Student Work
