New First Steps in Latin is the first book in a three-book series designed specifically for middle or high school students. The texts employ a minimum of explanation of grammatical principles, concentrate on essential grammar and morphology and on the syntax of simple, compound, and complex sentences. The focus on learning is through numerous examples. The series offers students a complete graded introduction to Latin and grammar. It can be used alone, as a main text supplemented by readings and cultural material, or as a supplementary grammatical work text for a reading-oriented course.

Each book consists of 30 lessons intended for a year-long course in Latin. Taken together, the three books form a complete course for grades 7–9 or 6-8. Vocabulary in the series is based on Cicero, Vergil, Ovid, and Pliny. After completing New Steps in Latin, students will be ready to read these or other unaltered Latin authors.