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Getting started on ancient Greek
Getting started on ancient Greek

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2 First words

Now that you have had some practice writing individual letters, let’s move on to words. When writing words, there are some additional points to bear in mind:

  • If a word begins with a vowel, it needs a breathing.
  • Sigma at the end of a word has its own shape (ς instead of σ).

Take your time and refer to the alphabet sheet as necessary (here's the link to the downloadable version again: Alphabet Guide [Tip: hold Ctrl and click a link to open it in a new tab. (Hide tip)] ). Keep a note of any letters that you find difficult to write.

Activity 2 First words

Timing: Allow about 15 minutes

Try writing out the following common Greek words yourself. You can use this worksheet if you wish: First words.

  • δένδρον (dendron) = tree
  • κακός (kakos) = bad
  • λόγος (logos) = word, reason, story
  • ποταμός (potamos) = river
  • σοφός (sophos) = wise
  • ἄγγελος (angelos) = messenger
  • βίβλος (biblos) = book
  • θεοί (theoi) = gods
  • ξένος (xenos) = stranger, foreigner, guest
  • ψυχή (psuchē) = soul, mind

Discussion

Here's a completed version of the worksheet for comparison: First words [completed].