Beginner Resources for Latin
Having taken Mandarin for eight years, I remember the basic games which helped me learn fundamental aspects of the language such as colors, numbers, and animals. I have provided some beginner resources to help with these fundamentals.
Play Simple Games
Simple childhood games that use the same words repetitively can be used to introduce and then strengthen Latin vocabulary. Group activities also build enthusiasm and participation.
Use easy, familiar games like:
Duck, Duck, Goose;
Rock, Paper, Scissors;
Go Fish with images and Latin words;
Memory Match;
I Spy;
Jump Rope with chants;
Hop Scotch for numbers.
All these can easily substitute Latin words for English ones to build recognition and understanding.
Songs and Movement
Popular well known children’s songs can be adapted into Latin. Try to find songs where the Latin version maintains the same melody This is a great way to engage kids and get them to repeat Latin words. Incorporating clapping, dance and movement enhances the fun.
Some suggested songs:
“Happy Birthday" – everyone’s favorite song
“If you’re Happy and you Know It” – clapping, stomping and movement makes this a favorite
“Old MacDonald Had a Farm” – fun way to teach animal words
"The Wheels on the Bus": Repetitive structure perfect for practicing different parts of speech.
Classroom Posters and Books
Creating an environment of learning and language reinforcement in the classroom or even spaces at home can have an impact. Using Latin calendars, weather charts, clocks and schedule of activities throughout the day helps students become more familiar and comfortable with terms.
Recognizing students’ Birthdays with charts of student’s birth date, family members, favorite color, favorite activity and food also creates fun way to use Latin in a celebratory way.
Reading translated simple sight books or working together to translate basic nursery books and and poems work well. Using stories that children are already familiar makes it easier to with connect Latin to cultural issues and themes.
Some Great Resources:
FREE WORKSHEETS
Latin Language Label & Coloring Book
Latin Weather & Seasons Poster
Latin Numbers Poster Using Fruit
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Latin-Numbers-Fruit-Poster-and-Printables-4304974
Latin Days of the Week
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Latin-Days-of-the-Week-1445247
FLASH CARDS
Latin Vocabulary
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Latin-Days-of-the-Week-1445247
Latin Roots
https://www.teacherspayteachers.com/Product/Latin-Roots-PowerPoint-Flash-Cards-Part-2-145289
Latin Essential Words by Category
MUSIC
Classica Academica Press – Song School & Workbooks:
https://classicalacademicpress.com/pages/series-song-school-latin
https://classicalacademicpress.com/collections/latin-for-children/products/latin-for-children-primer-a
