Latin

The intent of the Latin Curriculum

Latin is more than the study of a language; it is more, still, than the study of the Romans, who spoke the language. Studying Latin at GCSE allows students to see the world from a Roman perspective – life, love and growing up – and to form their own perspectives.

Latin is held in high regard for the breadth and depth of what is studied. At the core is the development of both logic and sympathy. By studying Latin, you can develop these invaluable skills while delving into the stories and myths of the Roman world, as countless have done for 2,700 years. This option is only available to those who are currently studying Latin.

How is the Latin Curriculum implemented?

Language trains the student in understanding and appreciating the Latin language. Students will learn more constructions and words to broaden their understanding of Latin language. This is done using the Cambridge Latin Couse in Y7 and De Romanis across Y8 &Y9.

Classical Civilisation use original texts and sources in translation. Texts and sources on a single theme, allowing students to explore aspects of Roman life. Through adapted Latin texts, we will explore a mythological stories and the meanings behind them.

In all components, students will be expected to analyse, apply logic and give opinion. The knowledge and skills we apply in Latin will be transferable and useful for students who study English, Maths, Modern Foreign Languages and History, to name but a few.

Curriculum Road Map - Latin

Curriculum Sequencing Plan - Latin

The impact of the Latin Curriculum at the end of Key Stage 3

The KS3 Latin curriculum at Sir John Leman High School gives students the skills, knowledge and experience to make an informed decision about pursuing their Latin studies at GCSE. By the end of Year 9, our students have attained a level of competence that will allow them to make a positive start to the GCSE course. As success in public examinations, Latin is a pre-requisite for the pursuance of courses in higher education and certain careers, our curriculum allows students to maximise their potential in foreign languages and humanities, as well as the scientific subjects, so that they have every opportunity available when they leave school.

How is it assessed?

Latin is taught to all groups in Year 7, Year 8 and Year 9. Year 7 classes are set according to English and most able groups in Year 8 and Year 9. Students can choose to continue with Latin at the end of each academic year. Students are assessed at the end of each module with vocabulary tests, translation and comprehension tasks – results are recorded on Go4Schools.

How can I help my child

Encourage them to use the Cambridge Latin Course website (https://www.clc.cambridgescp.com/online-activities) or Memrise (https://www.memrise.com/course/1714323/leman-latin-level-1-vocabulary-by-stage/) to help them improve their grammar and vocabulary. You can also test them on their Latin vocabulary.

Career directions could include:

Academia, civil service, education, drama and performing arts, journalism, legal profession, media, medical profession, public relations, project management, programming and web design, publishing and science researcher.

Useful links for revision

Sir John Leman High School and Sixth Form