2025/26 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

CLAS1910 Beginners Latin

20 Credits Class Size: 30

Module manager: Dr Bev Back
Email: b.back@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semesters 1 & 2 (Sep to Jun) View Timetable

Year running 2025/26

Mutually Exclusive

CLAS2910 Beginners Latin (Level 2)
CLAS3915 Beginners Latin (Level 3)

This module is approved as a discovery module

This module is approved as a skills discovery module

Module summary

This module introduces the Latin language from a complete beginners level. It is suitable for those with no prior knowledge of Latin, but also for those with a little prior experience but no formal qualification. It will use an introductory textbook to teach grammar, syntax, vocabulary, and translation. Students who have GCSE, AS-Level, A-Level or equivalent in Latin may NOT take this module. Please note this is an optional module and runs subject to enrolments. If a low number of students choose this module, then the module may not run and you may be asked to choose another module.

Objectives

The module is designed to provide a solid basis in knowledge of beginners level Latin language – vocabulary, grammar, and syntax – so that students can translate and answer comprehension questions on passages of adapted Latin writing, as well as understanding and using grammar and syntax in translating short sentences from English into Latin. It will provide a foundation for those who wish to take the acquisition of the language further to intermediate level.

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following learning outcomes relevant to the subject:

1. Recognise and refer to vocabulary, grammar and easier syntactical constructions, as appropriate to a beginners’ level course.
2. Apply correctly grammatical and syntactical rules in analysing clauses and simple sentences.
3. Understand and translate into English adapted Latin passages, with the aid of vocabulary and grammar/syntax notes.
4. Translate simple sentences from English into Latin.

On successful completion of the module students will have demonstrated the following skills learning outcomes:
5. Adopt effective and proactive language learning strategies.
6. Identify gaps in knowledge and seek out the information needed in order to address a problem or task.
7. Assess options and apply analytical judgement to understand and translate another language

Syllabus

Details of the syllabus will be provided on the Minerva organisation (or equivalent) for the module

Teaching Methods

Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours
Practical 40 1 40
Private study hours 160
Total Contact hours 40
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 200

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

The summative assessment at the end of the module (100%) will be scaffolded by formative assessment throughout the module.

This includes:
- a diagnostic test part-way through Semester 1 to assess general linguistic aptitude and potential to meet learning outcomes.
- regular formative tests of vocabulary and grammar
- oral feedback on contributions in class
- regular written homework, for example in the form of short grammar/syntax exercises or translations.
- consultations during regular office hours

Exams
Exam type Exam duration % of formal assessment
Open Book exam 2.0 Hrs 30 Mins 100
Total percentage (Assessment Exams) 100

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading List

There is no reading list for this module

Last updated: 25/04/2025

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team