Visual Latin is a unique video-based Latin course, designed for ages 9 and up. Created by two homeschooling dads, Visual Latin offers two levels of instruction - Level 1 and Level 2, with each level containing 30 lessons, enough for about two year's worth of Latin instruction together.
Each lesson is broken down into three parts - Grammar, Sentences, and Reading. Each of those sections is taught in a brief video, usually about 6-10 minutes long, and followed by an accompanying worksheet that gives an overview of the lesson and some work for the student to do to practice the lesson.
What makes Visual Latin unique? Several things:
- Humor plays a big part in each lesson - Dwane, the instructor, has a wry, witty sense of humor that keep the kids interested
- Lessons are short and not overwhelming
- The format is realistic - instead of memorizing complicated conjugations, the lessons use more of an immersion method - grammar is taught, but then the students get to see it and use it in sentences and reading, seeing and experiencing how it actually "works"
- Because it is in video format, it is easier for the students to get a feel for the language, by hearing it and also by having an experienced Latin teacher demonstrate it's usage. It's like having a private Latin tutor!
For this review, we were sent a DVD for Lessons 1-10 (lessons can also be purchased as downloads in HD m4v and iPod m4v formats). We followed the recommendations included with the video - we watched the video for one section of the lesson, and then did the accompanying worksheet. Since each lesson is broken down into 3 sections, we did Latin 3 days a week. The amount of time spent on Latin each day was probably no more than 15- 20 minutes, if that.
I was very curious to see how Visual Latin would go over for us. I've never really had a desire to teach Latin, and wasn't sure how enthusiastic the kids would be over it. And the whole idea of Latin instruction that could be humorous? I always sort of perceived Latin to be a rather serious, stuffy language, so I was skeptical!
However, after watching just the introduction Lessons, I was more eager to give it a try. The kids warmed up to Dwane (the instructor) right away. He's... funny! In a very witty way that makes the kids laugh, but isn't corny for grown-ups. He comes across as a very down-to-earth and enjoyable teacher. He also addresses the students directly, which I think the kids enjoy. I also appreciate that he is a Christian, homeschooling dad. He makes many references to God, as well as jokes about homeschooling. That makes me feel as if he understands how to relate well to the students he's teaching. Here are some screen shots (the kids call Dwane "the guy in the blue shirt"- you can see why!):
But aside from the instructor's personality... what about the lessons themselves? I've been very pleased! At first I was nervous that some of the grammar concepts would be over the boys' heads, but they took to them without any problems. I think much of that has to do with not just having it taught, but them actually reading it and having to use it in real sentences makes it much more natural. Right away they started noticing words that they've learned from their Spanish lessons and seeing similarities. They think it's almost like a secret code, and enjoy trying to decipher new words they're introduced to. I find that I'm eager to delve more into learning some Latin myself!
All in all, we've been quite please with Visual Latin and will be continuing the lessons. That says alot, considering I thought we'd never "do" Latin!
Get a glimpse for yourself - you can view a Sample Lesson, or even download some Free Lessons (4 Intro Lessons and 2 Regular Lessons). Be warned, though - you might just get hooked! Who knew learning Latin could be interesting and fun?!
Want to know a few more details? Be sure to check out their Q&As!
DVDs contain 10 lessons each, and can be purchased singly for $30 a piece, or an entire level (30 lessons), for $80, for single family use (they also have pricing for co-op/class use). Downloadable lessons are $25 for a 10-lesson set for single-family use.
If you are looking for a enjoyable, easy-to-learn Latin course, I definitely recommend Visual Latin!
See what other TOS Crew Members thought of Visual Latin by checking out their reviews at the TOS Homeschool Crew Blog!
Disclaimer: I was given this product specifically for the purpose of reviewing here on my blog as a member of the TOS Homeschool Crew. I received no other compensation in regards to this review.
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