Why learn Latin?

The importance of learning Latin for young students

Introduction

In the ever-evolving landscape of education, the push towards equipping students with relevant and modern skills often overshadows traditional subjects like Latin. Once the lingua franca of the educated world, Latin is now often viewed as a dead language with limited practical application. However, learning Latin offers numerous benefits that extend far beyond mere linguistic knowledge. It serves as a powerful tool for intellectual development, enhances understanding of modern languages, deepens knowledge of history and culture, and provides significant cognitive benefits. This essay explores the multifaceted reasons why young students should consider learning Latin and how it remains relevant in a variety of contexts.

1. Foundational understanding of the English language

One of the most compelling reasons for young students to learn Latin is its profound impact on understanding the English language. Approximately 60% of English words are derived from Latin, particularly those used in academic, legal, medical, and scientific contexts. By learning Latin, students gain insight into the roots of English vocabulary, which helps in mastering complex words and enhances their ability to decipher unfamiliar terms.

For example, the Latin word "scribere" means "to write," and from it, we derive words like "scribe," "inscription," and "manuscript." Understanding the Latin roots allows students to grasp the meanings of these English words more intuitively. Moreover, Latin study can significantly improve students' spelling and grammar. The rigorous structure of Latin grammar, with its clear rules and exceptions, provides students with a framework that can be applied to understanding and mastering English grammar.

2. Cognitive development and analytical skills

Learning Latin is not just about language acquisition; it also promotes cognitive development. The process of learning Latin requires students to engage in deep analytical thinking. Latin is an inflected language, meaning that the form of words changes to express their role in a sentence. This requires students to pay close attention to detail and understand the relationships between words, thereby fostering logical thinking and problem-solving skills.

The mental discipline developed through studying Latin can be transferred to other areas of learning. Students who study Latin often perform better in subjects that require critical thinking, such as mathematics and science. The process of translating Latin sentences into English requires the same step-by-step logical reasoning that is essential in solving mathematical problems.



3. Enhanced learning of other languages

Latin serves as a gateway to learning other languages, particularly the Romance languages such as Spanish, French, Italian, Portuguese, and Romanian. These languages evolved directly from Latin, and they share a significant amount of vocabulary and grammatical structures with their ancestral language. Students who have a solid foundation in Latin often find it easier to learn these modern languages because they can recognize familiar roots and grammatical patterns.

Even for languages that are not directly descended from Latin, such as German or Russian, Latin can still be helpful. The study of Latin teaches students how languages function as systems, which can make learning any new language more intuitive. Additionally, since Latin is no longer spoken conversationally, students focus on reading and writing, which are key skills when learning any new language.

4. Deepening cultural and historical knowledge

Latin is not just a language; it is a gateway to understanding Western civilization. By studying Latin, students gain direct access to the writings of ancient Rome, which have significantly influenced Western culture, law, government, philosophy, and literature. Understanding Latin allows students to read classical texts in their original language, providing insights that are often lost in translation.

For example, works by Roman authors such as Cicero, Virgil, and Ovid offer profound reflections on human nature, politics, and society that continue to resonate today. The legal terminology used in modern legal systems also has its roots in Latin, making the study of Latin particularly beneficial for students interested in pursuing careers in law or the humanities.

Moreover, learning Latin helps students appreciate the historical context of modern Western society. The Roman Empire’s influence on Europe is profound, and many modern institutions, from legal systems to architectural styles, trace their origins back to Rome. By studying Latin, students can better understand the roots of contemporary culture and the historical development of ideas that continue to shape our world.



5. Improving standardized test scores

An often-overlooked benefit of studying Latin is its positive impact on standardized test scores. Studies have shown that students who study Latin tend to perform better on tests like the SAT and GRE. This is particularly true for the verbal sections of these exams. The vocabulary and grammar skills gained from studying Latin translate directly into improved reading comprehension and writing abilities.

For example, the SAT and GRE include many vocabulary words with Latin roots. A student familiar with Latin is more likely to recognize these roots and infer the meanings of unfamiliar words, giving them a distinct advantage. Additionally, the analytical skills developed through Latin study can help students tackle the logic-based questions that are common on standardized tests.

6. Career advantages in various fields

While Latin may not seem immediately practical in today’s job market, it actually provides advantages in several professional fields. For students interested in careers in medicine, law, theology, or academia, Latin is particularly valuable. Medical terminology, for instance, is heavily based on Latin. A student with a background in Latin will find it easier to memorize and understand complex medical terms.

In law, many legal terms and phrases, such as habeas corpus or prima facie, are Latin. Understanding these terms is essential for anyone studying or practicing law. Additionally, Latin is often required or highly beneficial for students pursuing advanced degrees in theology or philosophy, as many foundational texts in these disciplines were originally written in Latin.

Moreover, a background in Latin can distinguish students in competitive academic and professional environments. It signals to potential employers or admissions committees that the student possesses strong analytical skills, intellectual curiosity, and a solid foundation in Western culture and thought.

Conclusion

The study of Latin may seem antiquated in a world increasingly dominated by technology and modern languages, but its benefits are far-reaching and enduring. From enhancing English language skills and cognitive development to facilitating the learning of other languages and deepening cultural understanding, Latin provides young students with a versatile toolset that can be applied in a variety of contexts. Moreover, the discipline and analytical skills gained from studying Latin can lead to improved academic performance and open doors to career opportunities in fields that value precision, logic, and a deep understanding of history and language.

In an educational environment where the focus is often on immediate practicality, Latin offers something different: a chance to develop the mind in ways that are not immediately apparent but are deeply valuable in the long term. For young students, learning Latin is not just about mastering a language; it is about cultivating a way of thinking that will serve them throughout their lives.

Career in research and development

A guide to pursuing a career in research and development

What is the field of research and development? What skills and dispositions are needed to successfully enter the field of research and development? What are examples of courses, learning opportunities, extracurricular activities, and experiences that can help middle school students and high school students prepare for, and excel in, the field of research and development?

Introduction

Research and development, also known as R&D for short, is an interdisciplinary field of study that involves the application of scientific knowledge to solve real-world problems. Professionals in this field may work in fields such as medicine, engineering, manufacturing, or any other scientific industry. If you’re a middle school student or high school student interested in exploring a career in research and development, read on for a guide to developing the skills and dispositions needed for success.

What skills are needed?

The skills required to pursue a career in R&D depend on the specific area of focus within the field. Generally speaking, however, professionals should have excellent problem-solving skills, be highly organized and detail-oriented, possess strong analytical abilities, have good communication skills (especially when it comes to conveying complex scientific concepts), and be able to think quickly and critically. In addition, many employers prefer applicants who are comfortable working with computers and technology; those with experience coding or writing software can expect even more opportunities.

How can students prepare?

There are several ways that students can start preparing for a career in R&D while they’re still in middle school or high school. For starters, taking courses related to mathematics (such as calculus or statistics), science (chemistry or biology), engineering (mechanical engineering or electrical engineering), computer programming/software development, physics (quantum mechanics or thermodynamics), chemistry (organic chemistry or biochemistry), economics (microeconomics or macroeconomics) are all great starting points for developing an understanding of the fundamental principles behind R&D.

Additionally, students should consider pursuing extracurricular activities such as robotics clubs/tournaments, science fairs/competitions, hackathons/programming challenges - all of which provide invaluable hands-on learning experiences that cannot be learned from textbooks alone. Finally, attending seminars/workshops on topics related to research & development hosted by universities and industry professionals can help students gain valuable insights into what it takes to succeed as an R&D professional.

Conclusion

Pursuing a career in research & development requires hard work and dedication - but also provides ample opportunity for personal growth and professional advancement along the way. With the right combination of courses/classes taken during middle school/high school years, paired with extracurricular activities related to research & development - plus attending seminars/workshops hosted by experts - students can get ahead of the curve when it comes time to apply for internships or jobs within the field. Ultimately, each step taken now towards developing relevant skills will pay off big time down the line!

Interesting articles

Another mixer post here containing links to a number of thought-provoking, fascinating articles on a wide range of subjects that I've come across over the last few weeks. Some really great reading here.

"Turkey's unique hand-sanitising method"

For hundreds of years, this Ottoman-era cologne has been synonymous with Turkish hospitality. Now, it’s being used to fight coronavirus.

http://www.bbc.com/travel/story/20200407-turkeys-unique-hand-sanitiser

"The outbreak that invented intensive care"

A heroic community effort at a daring hospital saved lives, led to today’s ventilators and revolutionized medicine - it holds lessons for our times.

https://www.nature.com/articles/d41586-020-01019-y

"The Maine Farmer Saving the World’s Rarest Heirloom Seeds"

Will Bonsall has spent a lifetime scattering seeds across the country. But will his efforts fall among the thorns?

https://downeast.com/land-wildlife/rare-heirloom-seeds

"How Camus and Sartre Split up Over the Question of How to Be Free"

Their radically opposed ideas of freedom broke up the philosophical friendship of the 20th century.

https://getpocket.com/explore/item/how-camus-and-sartre-split-up-over-the-question-of-how-to-be-free

"America's Devastating First Plague and the Birth of Epidemiology"

https://www.yahoo.com/news/americas-devastating-first-plague-birth-110005164.html

"6 Ways To Become A Better Listener"

Humans have an average eight-second attention span. You’re going to need to do better if you want to get things done.

https://getpocket.com/explore/item/6-ways-to-become-a-better-listener

"6 Ways to Look More Confident During a Presentation"

The right kinds of non-verbal communication correlate with success.

https://getpocket.com/explore/item/6-ways-to-look-more-confident-during-a-presentation

"They Survived the Spanish Flu, the Depression and the Holocaust"

https://www.yahoo.com/news/survived-spanish-flu-depression-holocaust-122529875.html

"Coronavirus is unprecedented in our lifetimes. So is the economic crisis about to explode."

https://www.yahoo.com/news/coronavirus-unprecedented-lifetimes-economic-crisis-110011566.html

"The Thinking Error at the Root of Science Denial"

Could seeing things in black-and-white terms influence someone’s views on scientific questions?

https://getpocket.com/explore/item/the-thinking-error-at-the-root-of-science-denial

"‘It’s a Superpower’: How Walking Makes Us Healthier, Happier and Brainier"

Neuroscientist Shane O’Mara believes that plenty of regular walking unlocks the cognitive powers of the brain like nothing else. He explains why you should exchange your gym kit for a pair of comfy shoes and get strolling.

https://getpocket.com/explore/item/it-s-a-superpower-how-walking-makes-us-healthier-happier-and-brainier

"Manage Your Personal Energy To Improve The Quality Of Life"

The more you enjoy your work, the more energy you’ll have to enjoy life. The opposite is also true.

https://getpocket.com/explore/item/manage-your-personal-energy-to-improve-the-quality-of-life

"Leo Tolstoy on Finding Meaning in a Meaningless World"

“For man to be able to live he must either not see the infinite, or have such an explanation of the meaning of life as will connect the finite with the infinite.”

https://getpocket.com/explore/item/leo-tolstoy-on-finding-meaning-in-a-meaningless-world

"Did Pontius Pilate Actually Convert to Christianity?"

https://www.yahoo.com/news/did-pontius-pilate-actually-convert-091512813.html

"No One Told Babe Ruth He Had Cancer, but His Death Changed the Way We Fight It"

The Great Bambino’s treatment came at a major turning point in medicine.

https://getpocket.com/explore/item/no-one-told-babe-ruth-he-had-cancer-but-his-death-changed-the-way-we-fight-it

"The Soviets’ Unbreakable Code"

The hidden history of the Fialka espionage machine.

https://getpocket.com/explore/item/the-soviets-unbreakable-code