Vocabulary from Classical Roots
by Norma Fifer and Nancy Flowers
Reviewed by Martha Robinson
Purchase details: Vocabulary from Classical Roots, paperback workbook ($10.80 for levels A-C, $11.55 for levels D and E) and teacher's guide ($18.75 per level.) Published by Educators Publishing Service, Inc. Please support HomeschoolChristian.com by buying this program from our Christian Book Distributors link or Amazon affiliate link.
Vocabulary from Classical Roots offers five levels of vocabulary study for grades seven to eleven. Based on Latin and Greek roots, the words are grouped into related topics such as government, military matters, and business, and contrasting areas such as "up and down," and "here and there."
The format of Vocabulary from Classical Roots is consistent through the levels. In the consumable student workbook, a topic area is usually covered in two lessons with each lesson introducing from four to six Latin or Greek forms and fifteen English words that are derived from them. Each lesson begins with a Latin quotation or proverb and its translation. Next, "key words," the fifteen words for which the student is responsible, are shown in a box. A Latin or Greek word (or words in the case of verbs as all forms are shown) is printed in boldface with its basic meaning. The vocabulary words that are derived from that word are shown below along with their pronunciation, definition, part of speech, and alternative forms. The English word is used in a sentence that references a historical or literary event or person. Boxes on the left margin provide "familiar words" and "challenge words" to allow the student to relate the Latin or Greek root to vocabulary he already knows and to expand his knowledge even further. Before moving on to the next Latin or Greek word, a "nota bene" offers additional information to add interest to what was introduced in the lesson. Four fill-in-the-blank and multiple choice exercises finish the lesson. Three review exercises, including one writing or discussion assignment, are included at the end of even-numbered lessons. A few simple, black-and-white drawings illustrate the student book.
A teacher's guide and answer key is available for each level. It offers basic teaching tips primarily for a classroom environment, but does offer some tips for independent study. A basic answer key is followed by a "glossary of literary and historical references," that provides source information for every example sentence used in the student book.
Recommendation: The benefits of vocabulary study for college entrance examinations is undisputed. All educated individuals should have an extensive vocabulary to enrich their writing and speaking capabilities. With the format of grouping English vocabulary words by root, Vocabulary from Classical Roots should allow the student to retain more of the words. While a vocabulary program such as this does not provide all the benefits of a full Latin program, with diligent study, the student will expand his or her knowledge of word meanings. Even in the family dedicated to Latin study, Vocabulary from Classical Roots would be an excellent supplement. The suggested starting time for the program, seventh grade and up, is appropriate. I also would recommend the higher levels to a parent wishing to expand his or her vocabulary.
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