GCSE Latin

GCSE LATIN

WHAT IS LATIN?
Latin is the study of the language, culture and literature of the Roman civilisation. It is a fascinating course, which develops an understanding of the root of many words in the English language. As well as looking at the culture and society of the Romans and discovering many connections to present day laws, architecture, language, rituals and attitudes. It comprises of detailed language study, focused on the reading of Latin. Latin is an ancient language therefore there is no requirement to speak Latin, write Latin or listen to it, only to read it.

WHY SHOULD I TAKE LATIN?

• It is fascinating
• You will develop an eye for detailed language study
• It will enhance your understanding of the root of many English words
• You will develop your awareness of the similarities and differences between the Roman world and later times, and thus gain sensitivity to past societies whose spiritual, cultural and moral values and priorities contrast with those of the modern western world

USEFUL SKILLS AND INTERESTS?

• For GCSE Latin
  no previous knowledge is required
• Enthusiasm and diligence is needed for this course
• An interest in other Languages, Cultures, Poetry, Archaeology and History

COURSE STRUCTURE AND CONTENT
This is a beginners course and will take you from nothing to GCSE in 2 years.

• Language

This part of the course consists of developing skills of translation. During the course you will learn to translate Latin into clear and understandable English. In the process you will look at the roots of words and make links and connections between Latin and English.

• Prose / Verse Set Text

This part of the course will focus on the study of literature in its original Latin from authors such as Pliny, Tacitus, Virgil or Ovid. You will learn to appreciate and analyse the way in which it was written and for what purpose.

• Background

This section of the course looks at the culture of the Romans, and will focus on 2 topic areas, such as, Religion, The City of Rome, The Roman Army or Everyday Life.

HOW WILL I BE ASSESSED FOR GCSE LATIN?
Each of the modular exams is 1 hour in length. The exams themselves involve translation from Latin into English, textual analysis and Roman topic source analysis in English.

COURSE COMMITMENT
We expect you to work outside of your timetabled lessons and advise an extra three hours of study a week at home plus two identified private studies periods within your college timetable.

COURSE COSTS
There a variety of visits that you will be able to consider taking part in. There is an annual visit to Newcastle University for the sixth form Classics open day which costs approximately 15.00, there is also a visit to London and St Albans costing approximately 90.00 and every two years there is a trip to Greece. All text books and course materials are provided.

PROGRESSION ROUTES
There are a variety of options open to you. In the past students have gone to University to study Classical Civilisation, Ancient History and Archaeology. With GCSE Latin it is possible to go on to study Latin or Classics. This subject will help you to develop high level analysis skills, communication skills and cultural awareness, which will be relevant on lots of other degree courses.