Why learning an additional language is great for our pupils. They gain a greater cultural understanding of others, have a deeper appreciation of how others see the world, and they can communicate with more people. Language learning improves brain function and memory.
Learning Greek helps with other lessons
English – Children improve their understanding of English as their native language, when comparing grammatical rules, syntax and morphology to an additional language. Many complex words in English originate from simple Greek words such as cacophony (in Greek ‘bad voice’) or calligraphy (in Greek ‘good writing’).
Maths – 2D shapes are named in English from the Greek number and the word for corner ie. octagon is translated as eight corners. Likewise many 3D shapes are named from the Greek number and the word for surface. The Greek alphabet is also used for equations, for example π.
Science – In science many words from Greek are used, including thermometer, metamorphic and stomata, words taught to Year 3 pupils.
RE – People also learn Greek to better understand the New Testament, For example Matthew 16:18 ‘And I say also to thee, that thou art Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church: and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.’ ‘κἀγὼ δέ σοι λέγω ότι σὺ εἶ Πέτρος, καὶ ἐπὶ ταύτῃ τῇ πέτρᾳ οἰκοδομήσω μου τὴν ἐκκλησίαν, καὶ πύλαι Ἅιδου οὐ κατισχύσουσιν αὐτῆς.’ In Greek the name Peter is from the Greek word for rock, some suggest that this was a purposeful play on words.
Greek in our school is taught with enthusiasm. We believe that children who are engaged in the lessons and take responsibility for their learning will not only learn Greek well, but any language they choose to learn in the future.