CLAS*2220 - Greek and Latin Roots for the Sciences

Course Description

This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the Latin and Greek roots and stems used in scientific terminology. The course will cover the etymology of commonly used scientific terms and provide students with the tools necessary to decipher and understand complex scientific terminology. Students will learn the fundamentals of Latin and Greek grammar and syntax, and how they are used to form the basis of scientific terminology. The course will explore the key prefixes, suffixes, and root words in the Latin and Greek languages, which form the building blocks of scientific terminology. No prior knowledge of Latin or Greek is required, but a strong interest in language and the sciences is recommended.

Learning Outcomes

What You'll Learn

Upon successful completion of this course, you will be able to:

1. Develop an understanding of the etymology of scientific terminology;
2. Analyze scientific terminology and recognize the specific Latin and Greek roots, stems, grammar and syntax used to construct them;
3. Apply knowledge of Latin and Greek roots and stems to decipher and understand complex scientific terms;
4. Critique the impact of linguistic changes on scientific understanding and progress, and construct evidence-based arguments for how communication strategies can be improved using knowledge of etymology; and
5. Improve scientific literacy and communication skills.