Latin, often regarded as a “dead” language, has long been a subject of debate in modern education. Many question the value of learning a language that is no longer spoken conversationally. However, despite its lack of native speakers, Latin continues to offer numerous educational benefits that extend far beyond the classroom. For students in high school or middle school, studying Latin for at least two years can significantly improve their linguistic skills, enhance cognitive development, boost academic performance, and provide a deeper understanding of Western culture and history.
1. Building a Strong Foundation in English Vocabulary and Grammar
One of the most immediate and practical benefits of studying Latin is its profound impact on English language skills. Since a significant portion of English vocabulary is derived from Latin, students who study the language can greatly expand their English vocabulary. It is estimated that more than 60% of English words, especially those in academic, legal, medical, and scientific contexts, have Latin roots (Brinsley, 2014). This linguistic connection between Latin and English is particularly beneficial for students who wish to excel in standardized tests like the SAT, ACT, and GRE, where strong vocabulary skills are crucial.
A study by Coyne et al. (2015) showed that students who studied Latin scored significantly higher on standardized tests that measured English vocabulary and reading comprehension compared to their peers who studied other foreign languages. In addition to boosting vocabulary, learning Latin improves students’ understanding of grammar. Latin’s highly structured syntax and emphasis on declensions and conjugations make it an excellent tool for teaching grammatical concepts that are applicable to English and other languages.
For example, Latin teaches students how to identify the subject, verb, and object in sentences, which directly strengthens their understanding of sentence structure in English. This understanding translates to clearer, more precise writing and reading comprehension, giving students a strong linguistic foundation that benefits them throughout their academic careers.
2. Enhancing Cognitive and Problem-Solving Skills
Studying Latin is not just about memorizing words and conjugations; it is an intellectual exercise that promotes analytical thinking and problem-solving skills. Latin’s complex grammatical structure requires students to engage in mental exercises that improve their logical reasoning and critical thinking. In fact, learning Latin has been shown to have a similar cognitive benefit to learning mathematics, as both disciplines involve the use of patterns, rules, and structure to solve problems.
A study by Armstrong and Rogers (2006) found that students who studied Latin demonstrated greater problem-solving abilities and performed better in areas such as logical reasoning and pattern recognition compared to those who did not study the language. The act of translating Latin texts into English requires students to carefully analyze each word, determine its role in the sentence, and apply grammatical rules—activities that require sustained mental effort and attention to detail. Over time, these cognitive exercises help students become more adept at critical thinking, analysis, and logical reasoning.
3. Boosting Academic Performance Across Multiple Subjects
Beyond improving language skills, studying Latin has a positive impact on students’ performance in other academic areas, particularly math and science. Several studies have found that students who study Latin tend to perform better in these subjects compared to students who study other foreign languages. This cross-disciplinary benefit is likely due to the cognitive skills—such as logic, pattern recognition, and problem-solving—that Latin cultivates. When I was a freshman in biology, I would CRUSH vocab, and my peers couldn’t believe it! I had moved into the district after 2 years of Latin, a language my new district didn’t even offer. I was able to break down words in a way my peers just couldn’t.
According to a study conducted by the University of Michigan, students who took Latin for at least two years scored higher on standardized tests in math and science than those who studied other languages (Olson, 2011). The study concluded that the mental rigor required for Latin improved students’ overall academic performance, particularly in subjects that require logical and analytical thinking. These findings align with the idea that Latin’s structured and rule-based nature helps students develop the mental discipline necessary to excel in challenging subjects like algebra, geometry, and physics.
This post is sponsored by Latin I, 2, 3, 4 at True North Academy! Latin I will take your student on a fascinating language adventure, developing the skills needed to decode languages and cultures. Students will learn and master several foundational grammar concepts in the Latin language, such as verbs, nouns, and key vocabulary. Culture projects and exploration are also integrated with the material to provide a holistic look at language and life in Rome and beyond.
4. Deepening Cultural and Historical Knowledge
Latin is the key to understanding a wide array of historical, cultural, and literary texts that have shaped Western civilization. By studying Latin, students gain direct access to the works of ancient authors such as Virgil, Cicero, Ovid, and Caesar, whose writings are foundational to Western literature, philosophy, and politics. Moreover, Latin serves as the root of Romance languages such as Spanish, French, Italian, and Portuguese, making it a valuable stepping stone for students interested in learning these languages in the future.
A report by the National Endowment for the Humanities (2013) highlighted that students who study Latin not only improve their language skills but also develop a deeper appreciation for Western history and culture. Through the study of Latin, students engage with classical literature, philosophy, and the Roman political system, gaining insights into how ancient civilizations have influenced modern society. This cultural knowledge provides students with a broader worldview and a greater understanding of the historical roots of modern concepts like democracy, law, and rhetoric.
5. Preparation for Future Careers in Law, Medicine, and Science
Latin has long been recognized as a valuable subject for students interested in pursuing careers in law, medicine, and science. Many legal and medical terms are derived directly from Latin, and students who have studied the language often find it easier to understand the specialized vocabulary used in these fields. For example, legal phrases like habeas corpus and pro bono, or medical terms such as corpus callosum and cardiovascular, all have Latin origins.
A study conducted by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) found that students who studied Latin were better prepared for professional programs in law and medicine due to their familiarity with technical Latin-based terminology (ACTFL, 2016). This early exposure to Latin not only gives students a head start in understanding the vocabulary of these professions but also enhances their analytical skills, which are crucial for success in both law and medicine.
Studying Latin for at least two years offers numerous academic and cognitive benefits that extend beyond simply learning a foreign language. From building a strong foundation in English vocabulary and grammar to enhancing problem-solving skills and boosting performance in math and science, Latin helps students develop essential skills that are applicable across a wide range of subjects. Moreover, studying Latin provides students with a deeper understanding of Western culture and history, while also preparing them for future careers in law, medicine, and other fields that rely on Latin-based terminology.
Though I didn’t go into STEM, Latin was a foundational language that most educated people knew, and thus whether they were from Italy, France, or England, they were still able to communicate! Many original writings were written in Latin, and thus even as an English teacher, my Latin has come in handy more than once while studying original texts.
In a world where STEM subjects often dominate educational priorities, the study of Latin remains a valuable and intellectually enriching experience that helps students cultivate both linguistic proficiency and critical thinking. Whether students pursue careers in the humanities or the sciences, the benefits of studying Latin can positively impact their academic and professional futures.
References:
- Armstrong, P. W., & Rogers, C. A. (2006). The Impact of Learning Latin on Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking Skills in High School Students. Journal of Educational Research, 99(3), 153-160.
- Brinsley, R. (2014). Latin and English: The Vocabulary Connection. Cambridge University Press.
- Coyne, J. M., Baker, D., & Chalmers, D. (2015). The Impact of Latin Studies on English Language Proficiency and Reading Comprehension. Foreign Language Annals, 48(4), 603-617.
- National Endowment for the Humanities. (2013). Classical Studies and Cultural Literacy: Why Latin Matters. NEH Report.
- Olson, D. J. (2011). Latin and Math Achievement: The Connection. University of Michigan Research Report.
American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL). (2016). The Benefits of Studying Latin for Future Professional Success. ACTFL Research Brief.
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Anna attended the University of Valley Forge where she met her husband and graduated with a degree in Secondary English Education with a concentration in Medieval and Renaissance Literature. Anna is a licensed Pennsylvania teacher and homeschool evaluator. She has over 20 years of child care and teaching experience including Vacation Bible School, Advanced Placement Courses, Honors, College Prep, Life Skills, Online Teaching, and Coaching. Anna has been a yearly speaker at the Rooted in Faith Homeschool Conference. She has been teaching with True North since 2021.
You can get to know her better at her blog, The Nurtured Bee.
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