Word Etymologies: The Greek and Latin Roots of English

Word Etymologies: The Greek and Latin Roots of English (CL903-2A)

Over 60 percent of English words derive from Greek or Latin, and in fields such as science and technology, over 90 percent. This course is designed to increase English vocabulary by focusing on the Greek and Latin roots of the English language. Students will study the meanings of Greek and Latin words as a basis for learning their derivatives and cognates in English.

Our word study will be organized by subject, including law, politics and government, psychology, biology and medicine, science and mathematics, and the fine arts. Class activities involving identifying and using vocabulary in context are engineered to hone students’ critical thinking and writing abilities.

Courses in etymologies are especially valuable to students preparing to take standardized exams, such as the SAT or GRE, and to students anticipating undergraduate or advanced study in medicine or law. In addition to boosting their memorization and analytical skills, students will gain a facility with linguistic and grammatical concepts that will serve them well for future study of ancient and/or modern languages.

Required Text: The Greek & Latin Roots of English, 4th ed. by Tamara Green.