Latin

IB

Why study Latin?
Would you like to immerse yourself in the world of ancient Rome, discovering their history and stories in the most authentic way possible - by reading them in the original Latin?  Can you ever imagine not having Latin in your life?  The aim of the IB course is to improve students’ understanding of the Classical World as a whole and to develop their linguistic skills; it is less about learning by rote and more about developing an understanding of Latin and the Roman World. Through studying two set genres in the literature course, the focus of study is much more synoptic and students consider the overall meaning and purpose of the literature.

Virgil’s Aeneid II: Are you fascinated by epic tales, heroic deeds and the rich tapestry of ancient mythology? Are you ready to learn about the heart-wrenching events of Troy’s final night through Aeneas’ eyes? Virgil’s vivid storytelling brings to life the heroism, tragedy and divine interventions that mark the end of the Trojan War. We love an EP - elevated emphatic position - and the Aeneid has a treasure trove of literary devices!

Cicero’s pro Caelio: Are you ready to dive into the captivating world of ancient Rome and master the art of rhetoric? Step into the courtroom of 56 BC and witness the high-stakes trial of Marcus Caelius Rufus. Through Cicero’s brilliant defence, you will explore themes of justice, mortality and personal vendettas in a thrilling narrative that feels like a courtroom drama.

Assessment:

• Study of the language (SL - 35%, HL - 30%)
• Literature (SL - 35%, HL - 30%)
• HL composition (HL Only) - An original composition in prose Latin guided by intentions and informed by classical sources and additional research (20%)
• Individual study (SL -  30%, HL- 20%)

The individual study involves compiling a research dossier relating to a topic in classical history, literature, religion, mythology, art or archaeology, or some other aspect of classical influence. Wherever suitable, there will be opportunities to attend relevant study days and to go on trips to Greece and Rome.

How good must I be?
The IB is a direct continuation of GCSE and assumes a knowledge of the Latin vocabulary and grammar prescribed for the GCSE course (a 6 at GCSE is desirable). Individual pupils will be assessed on their merits.
 

The sheer diversity of the literature, the satisfaction of “getting it” and the knowledgeable enthusiasm of my teachers make this a great subject 

Alex, IB student

 

 

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A Level

Exam Board: OCR  www.ocr.org.uk
Syllabus Code: H443  

Why study Latin?
Latin occupies a major place in the history of world culture, as it was the central language of the Roman Empire, which stretched from Britain to the boundaries of modern India at its height. Through Latin, we can gain an understanding of the impact of Roman culture and thus its considerable legacy, and we can access a wealth of rich literature. Latin is the essential root of modern Romance languages. To study Latin is to be both fascinated and to be inspired, as have been so many of the historians, politicians and authors of the last two millennia.

For the last two years, we have achieved 100% A*- A.

The set texts for examination will be taken from:
Prose Literature: Nepos, Hannibal
Verse Literature: Virgil Aeneid 2

Expectations of independent study
Throughout the Lower Sixth course, pupils can build a thorough understanding of more complex linguistic structures and develop the ability both to translate Latin into English more fluently and to translate English into idiomatic Latin. In addition to the study of language, pupils will study two Latin authors (one prose and one verse) in the original language, through which they learn to respond personally to the text, considering the spiritual, moral and cultural issues that emerge from the reading. The Upper Sixth course continues to develop these skills, but expects greater independence in the pupil.

Requirements
The A Level course is a direct continuation of GCSE and assumes a knowledge of the Latin vocabulary and grammar prescribed for the GCSE course (a 6 at GCSE is desirable). 
 
What do the pupils say?
“The challenge of facing a piece of Latin, placing all the words into their correct context and then producing a stylish translation has been immensely rewarding.”
“The sheer diversity of the literature, the satisfaction of “getting it” and the knowledgeable enthusiasm of my teachers make this a great subject.”

What career pathways are open to me if I study this subject?
Studying Latin will allow you to access a variety of careers at a high level! Just look at the world around you: you will find lawyers, writers and journalists, teachers, researchers, accountants, bankers, financiers, businessmen and politicians, all who have a Classical foundation… This is a subject that makes you a critical and original thinker.

Assessment:

Assessment takes the form of four examinations; there is no coursework element.  

Language  33% 
Unseen translation paper 1 hr 45 mins.  100 marks 

Prose composition  or comprehension  17% 
1 hr 15 mins.  50 marks   

Literature Prose literature  25%   
2 hrs.  75 marks   

Verse Literature 25% 
2 hrs.  75 marks

I have really enjoyed getting stuck into my set texts – I’ve even learned how to chat up a girl, Roman style!

Jack, U6 pupil