A/AS Classical Civilisation

A/AS Classical Civilisation

What is Classical Civilisation?
The course is a combination of archaeology and classical literature. Archaeology is the study of past human societies from the investigation of the material remains they have left behind. This knowledge will be combined with writings from classical times in order to develop an understanding of the world of the ancient Greeks and Romans.

The AS level consists of two units. The theme of the first unit is -Archaeology and the Classical World . This involves work on archaeological methodology linked with a case study of the major Mycenaean sites of ancient Greece. The remains of palaces and the evidence of the decorative arts, graves and tombs, pottery and artefacts will be the focus of your work. In the second unit you will examine -City Life in Roman Italy. This involves a study of society, culture and politics with particular reference to the cities of Pompeii, Herculaneum and Ostia.

Having successfully completed the AS level you will take a further two units for the A level. The title of the first unit is -Roman Britain . You will study Romano-British society and history as revealed through the archaeological record and literature from the time. The second unit will involve a study of Greece & Persia focusing amongst other things on the Persian Empire & the war with Greece. You will make a particular study of sculpture, vase painting and buildings from this period.

Is Classical Civilisation suitable for me?
Students have commented favourably upon the range of themes covered and the mix of archaeology and literature. They particularly enjoyed doing presentations on some of the archaeological themes of the course. Amongst the more challenging aspects of the course students have noted the need for in-depth reading and the largely theoretical nature of the units.

How will I learn?
A variety of approaches will be adopted in the classroom. You will have to work through a number of texts. You will also produce presentations on chosen themes to put before the class as well as tackling set exercises. You will build up a file of notes and resources which will be the basis of your revision for the exams. There will be regular homework; a student can expect to do 4 to 5 hours private study a week for each AS level. The examination is based on a mixture of essays, set tasks and short answer questions, and homework will largely focus upon these.

How will I be assessed?
Coursework: Year 1 - 0% Year 2 - 0%

There will be two examinations for the AS level at the end of the first year and a further two for the A level in the second year. Both year one examinations will consist of illustrations or passages for comment combined with essay work.

The second year examinations will follow a similar line with commentary questions and essays and they will build upon the skills and knowledge developed over both years of the course.

Progression
A number of students have carried archaeology and/or classics further and many have sought practical experience by getting involved with digs in the local area. The qualification is useful in demonstrating to Universities and employers the breadth of a student's abilities.

Course costs
All students will be expected to provide their own textbooks, stationery, computer disks and calculators (where appropriate).

Essential: Several books are required for this course. We will be able to supply some but you should budget around £40. Any further costs are outlined below:

Desirable: You should allow around £50 to cover possible trips and visits.

Optional: You may also wish to budget around £200 in order to join an archaeological dig.

If the costs of equipment, materials and trips may cause financial hardship, there is the opportunity to apply for help from the College Access Fund.

Course: OCR H041/H441

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