Noble and Greenough School Course Catalog

In this interdisciplinary course, students are introduced to the basics of Latin in conjunction with their study of English. Learning the grammar of both subject matters side by side, students build their understanding of words and language and improve their process of analysis. They see connections between the two disciplines, and they recognize important areas of difference. As they learn new words, their working vocabulary expands, and they appreciate how languages work. Just as an understanding of the classical world enhances our understanding of our own, so too does an understanding of contemporary culture allow us to better dissect the language and literature of the past. Equipped with an eye for detail, students examine and analyze ancient authors such as Homer and Sophocles as well as more contemporary works of fiction.

In Class V English, students continue to discover their own identity as they explore our common humanity by considering such diverse concepts as home, transformation, race, and revelation. Both analytical and creative writing receive much attention, as students learn to use language for a variety of purposes and to address a variety of audiences. The curriculum stresses independence of thought as students develop effective habits of heart and mind. Our work with grammar and vocabulary builds on skills introduced in seventh grade. A climate of open discussion and exchange of ideas is fostered by engagement with a variety of texts. Representative works include: Night (Wiesel), Romeo and Juliet (Shakespeare), Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time (Haddon), and A Raisin in the Sun (Hansberry).