This book makes learning word study and derivation truly exciting and inspiring. Lessons are designed around classical themes in their historical, social, literary, scientific and cultural contexts. Finally, an etymology and roots course that makes students -- and teachers -- think!

---

Product Description

Unlike most etymology textbooks, this one presents the words studied in the context of the ideas in which the words functioned. Instead of studying endless lists of word roots, suffixes, and prefixes in isolation, the words are enlivened by the social, literary, and cultural media in which they were used. Readers are introduced to a wide variety of topics from classical antiquity, entertained by clever cartoons, and are able to practice their word knowledge with exercises.

Special Features

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------

An etymology textbook that also introduces students to a wide variety of topics in classical antiquity

Chapters on Mythology, Medicine, Politics and Law, Commerce and Economics, Philosophy and Psychology, History

Introduction to word building
Exercises throughout
Illustrations of ancient artifacts
Clever cartoons on word origins
Glossary of English words and phrases

For over 30 years Bolchazy-Carducci Publishers has produced the highest quality Latin and ancient Greek books. From Dr. Seuss books in Latin to Plato's Apology, Bolchazy-Carducci's titles help readers learn about ancient Rome and Greece; the Latin and ancient Greek languages are alive and well with titles like Cicero's De Amicitia and Kaegi's Greek Grammar. We also feature a line of contemporary eastern European and WWII books.

Some of the areas we publish in include:

Selections From The Aeneid
Latin Grammar & Pronunciation
Greek Grammar & Pronunciation
Texts Supporting Wheelock's Latin
Classical author workbooks: Vergil, Ovid, Horace, Catullus, Cicero
Vocabulary Cards For AP Selections: Vergil, Ovid, Catullus, Horace
Greek Mythology
Greek Lexicon
Slovak Culture And History

---

Product Details

• Amazon Sales Rank: #752901 in Books
• Published on: 2002-12-01
• Original language: English
• Number of items: 1
• Binding: Paperback
• 281 pages

---

Customer Reviews

Benefits of the Classics for All
This interactive book brings the enhanced vocabulary from studying Greek or Latin to everyone. Having taken Latin throughout high school, I find myself frequently using that Latin vocabulary to figure out the meanings of unfamiliar English words. From passing entrance exams to reading literature, knowing word roots is infinitely useful.

Words & Ideas builds vocabulary by explaining Latin and Greek roots of words in the context that they are used. First, the book teaches readers to identify roots, with derivatives, charts to fill in, and even clever comic strips. Later, the roots are grouped into sections such as "medicine," "commerce and economics," and "history," not only defining the roots, but also providing historical background and humorous anecdotes, along with websites that have more information. I heartily applaud the organization of this book-having the roots grouped by context, rather than alphabetically or randomly. This way, they are taught just how they will later be seen, in related sets. Moreover, the glimpses into Roman and Greek culture encourage readers not only to recognize and define the roots of words, but also to put these terms in better context. This is an innovative approach to vocabulary building, introducing roots in related groups.