Why Latin?
The study of Latin in the Sixth Form aims to develop further and build upon the grammar and literature content of work done in earlier years. Authors are studied in greater depth and independent reading and research is encouraged. Eight lessons per week at AS and A2 Level cover a wide variety of Latin writers and students can develop their own interest in different areas of the course. Much emphasis is placed on enjoyment of the subject. The number of students opting for Latin has been most encouraging in recent years and it is hoped that this trend will continue.
Course Overview
Unit 1 – Latin Language
Students will be tested on their knowledge of Latin prose. The exam consists of a translation of a passage of Latin into English, followed by either another passage of Latin into English OR a set of five sentences into Latin.
Unit 2 – Latin Verse and Prose Literature
This contains questions on a prose author studied and questions on a verse author studied.
Unit 3 - Latin Verse (poetry)
Students read prescribed verse texts. For the exam students answer questions on the set text and complete an unseen translation and comprehension.
Unit 4 – Latin Prose (non-verse)
Students read prescribed prose texts. For the exam they answer questions on the set text and complete either an unseen translation with some comprehension questions OR they do a prose composition – i.e. a story into Latin.
Assessment
Assessment at AS Level is by means of written examinations on Latin Language and on Latin Literature. A2 Level is assessed by written examinations on both Latin Verse and Latin Prose.
Beyond A Level
People who study Classics (Latin and Greek) are renowned for their skills of logic, perception, clarity of thought and expression, the ability to manipulate language and to spell properly! Many students go on to become businesswomen, teachers, writers, lawyers – and many end up in extremely high-powered posts.
Latin can combine with any A level to provide a good entry base for many University courses. Students who opt for Latin A Level are generally lively, happy and hard-working.