Disclaimer: I received one copy of the complete First Form Latin set for free in exchange for an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own.
First Form Latin is the first in a 4-book series from Memoria Press. Suitable for grades 5 and up, the series will take you and your children from basic vocabulary to a deep understanding of Latin grammar.
First Form Latin
The Latin journey begins with First Form Latin where you will cover basic vocabulary as well as those first steps into Latin grammar, which will form a solid foundation that is necessary for future learning. There are 34 lessons divided into 5 units – plenty of work for a very full year of Latin!
Taking a look at the pieces & parts…
The major components include the DVDs, a Teacher’s Manual, a Student Text, and a Student Workbook. Let’s take a look at each part:
The Teacher’s Manual & Key
The Teacher’s Manual is an essential component to the program. It has a reduced copy of the Student Text along with each of the steps in conducting a Latin lesson – recitation, vocabulary, and grammar lesson. Everything is laid out for you in an easy-to-use format (wonderful for this first-time Latin mom!) along with a suggested weekly schedule. The manual also includes lists of every day & classroom Latin, prayers, sayings, basic grammar rules, sentence patterns, and oral drills.
The second part of the teacher’s set is a Workbook & Test Key that includes copies of the Student Workbook and tests with answers. It also has a wonderful review section in the back that covers a variety of grammar questions.
I love the oral recitation, grammar questions, and drill. Oral recitation is a great way to internalize all the Latin rules and grammar forms. It doesn’t take very long but the constant review makes for quick recall.
The student portion of First Form Latin is made up of two parts – the Student Text and the Student Workbook. Each lesson in the Student Text is contained in one two-page spread with 5 or 6 worksheets in the Student Workbook that correspond with that lesson. There is so much information packed into these books!
The Student Text is the perfect size at 8×8 inches. I like that each lesson is 2 pages – it’s not so overwhelming when done in small increments. And the accompanying worksheets can be spread out over the course of the week.
Doing a little Latin every day is better for long-term retention than trying to fit all the work into 1 or 2 sessions per week.
Other materials
First Form Latin DVDs – If Latin is a new language for you, as well as your children, then I HIGHLY recommend the DVDs. Glen Moore is a great instructor. The lessons are short but information-packed.
Quizzes & Tests – Another addition to the full program is the Quizzes & Tests book. This book includes one quiz for each lesson as well as a test for each unit and a final exam. (You’ll find the answers in the Teacher Key.)
Flashcards, wall charts, pronunciation CD – While these might just seem like “extras” they are an essential part of the program for us. We use the flashcards to review Latin sayings and vocabulary each week and the wall charts are a good recitation tool. And the CD is handy for this mom who often forgets how to pronounce different words!
First Form Latin ($115 for the complete set) is a solid Latin program that focuses on learning Latin grammar first. A firm understanding of Latin grammar is essential for future translation work. Memoria Press understands this and has provided homeschooling families with the tools to be successful in their Latin journey.
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