On a Practical Level: There are two main reasons why Latin can be useful on a practical level. The first is, because the Latin language is so well ordered and lacks all the complications and exceptions of the English Language, its study can be very helpful in understanding concepts of Grammar. Because it is an inflected language (meaning that the endings change based on how the word is used), it is very easy to identify what place the word holds in the sentence (subject, object, indirect object, etc.). The second (and most obvious reason) is that studying Latin will enhance a student's vocabulary and spelling skills since many English words (70-80 percent) find their roots in Latin. I can also tell you from experience that it can be very helpful on the verbal part of the SAT! As Catholics: Part of why Catholics study Latin is to help instill in our children a love for the traditions of our faith. The exquisite traditional prayers and hymns of the Church, such as St. Thomas Aquinas' Adoro te Devote and the Salve Regina are treasures as important to us as the fine paintings of Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci. Additionally, for those who attend a Latin Mass (whether Tridentine or Novus Ordo), familiarity with the language will be very helpful in following along and understanding the Mass. Related Articles: (from the Memoria Press website) The Language that Rose from the Dead by Rev. Randall Payne Latin is the Next Step After Phonics by Cheryl Lowe, author of Latina Christiana Taking Latin Seriously by Cheryl Lowe, author of Latina Christiana Additional Thoughts: I would add another reason for studying Latin: That continued study of Latin will enable a child to read Classical Latin authors in the original. Virgil, Cicero, Catullus, et al. can only be truly appreciated in Latin. And also, the ability to read the originals is invaluble to those going on to study Western literature, as many Classically trained homeschoolers go on to a Liberal Arts programme do. I know that my knowledge of Latin (and Greek) gave me an advantage in my University English courses. Most scholars of the past (until just recently, in fact) knew the Classical languages,and so quotes in books, articles and commentary are in the original. contributed by Désirée Caron