This blog is about Latin Activities and Classroom Transformations.

 

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5 Ways to Practice for the National Latin Exam

5 Ways to Practice for the National Latin Exam

5 Ways to Practice for the National Latin Exam

  1. Pre-made resources: Roundup of National Latin Exam practice questions!

  2. Identify Student Weaknesses

It is nearly impossible to construct a course that covers every inch of the National Latin Exam material. I tell my students that there will probably be 1-2 questions on the exam that cover material I have not taught them. Many teachers want to let the exam organically reflect the contents of their Latin course without catering to the material, and that’s a great approach. The National Latin Exam should reflect standardized material taught in every Latin class. Here is an overview of types of questions to practice for the National Latin Exam:

3. Student-led Learning

  • Have students take a previous National Latin Exam as practice (linked here)

  • Instruct students to star questions they had no previous knowledge of

  • Label commonly missed questions as “Vocabulary”, “Grammar”, “Roman Culture”, “Geography”, “History”, “Derivatives”, “Mottos”, “Spoken Latin”, or “Mythology” (based on the syllabus found here)

  • Construct mini lessons based on the 3-4 topics you feel are your students’ weaknesses

    • Assign students a topic to present to the class

    • Students spend time research their topic and putting together a Google Slideshow as well as 5 multiple choice practice questions on their topic for the class

    • As students present to the class, review questions are answered!

 

4. Independent Student Guided Notes 

  • Students work through culture topics that might not be covered in a class that is grammar-heavy throughout the year (*guilty*)

  • Students copy down notes for 6 different National Latin Exam Practice topics

5. National Latin Exam Practice: Games!

My students have found success in a gamified setting, so I look for ways to engage students in activities that balance play and academic rigor. Here are some of my favorites:

  • Beginner NLE Digital Escape Room

  • NLE Google Slides to practice for the National Latin Exam

  • National Latin Exam Practice Puzzles that review vocabulary, mottos, mythology, and culture!

Click here to check out my bundle of National Latin Exam Practice activities!

Some other helpful reminders:

  • Start Early and Practice Regularly
    One of the most important tips for acing the National Latin Exam is to start early and practice regularly. Don't wait until the last minute to cram all the information. Instead, create a study schedule and allocate specific time each day to practice Latin. Consistency is key when it comes to language learning, so make sure to stick to your schedule and practice regularly. This will help you build a strong foundation of Latin vocabulary and grammar, and improve your overall understanding of the language. Additionally, starting early will give you more time to review and reinforce your knowledge, ensuring that you are well-prepared for the exam.

  • Familiarize Yourself with the Exam Format

    Before taking the National Latin Exam, it's important to familiarize yourself with the exam format. This will help you understand what to expect on test day and allow you to better prepare. Take the time to review past exam papers or sample questions to get a sense of the types of questions that may be asked. Pay attention to the structure of the exam, including the number of sections, the time allotted for each section, and the types of questions that may be included. By familiarizing yourself with the exam format, you can develop a strategy for approaching each section and maximize your chances of success.

Teaching Beginner Latin

Teaching Beginner Latin

No-Prep Latin Games: A List of Free Resources

No-Prep Latin Games: A List of Free Resources

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