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 will allow learners to develop their knowledge of Latin vocabulary, morphology and syntax so that they can read and understand unseen confected or adapted passages of Latin. Latin will also require learners to know the words which are listed in the Defined Vocabulary List (DVL) as well as other specified forms of these words. Learners will be expected to apply their knowledge and understanding of syntax and accidence and DVL listed in OCR Latin GCSE specification to translate a passage of Latin, answer comprehension questions and either answer grammar within the context of a narrative passage or translate short English sentences into Latin.

Prose and Verse Literature will develop learners’ knowledge and understanding of the ancient world through the study of ancient literature and ancient sources. Learners are required to study a compulsory Language component together with two Literature components.  Learners will study Latin set texts and answer questions in English on aspects of content and analyse, evaluate and respond to the ancient literature they have studied. The Literature components will require the study of between 110 and 120 lines of material in Latin. These set texts will change every two years.

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.

The impact of the Latin Curriculum at the end of Key Stage 4

 How is it examined?

The qualification is examined by written exam only.

Language: 1 hour 30 minutes, 100 marks, 50% of GCSE

Verse Literature: 1 hour, 50 marks, 25% of GCSE

Prose Literature: 1 hour, 50 marks, 25% of GCSE

What qualification will I get? What could it lead to?

• OCR Level 1/Level 2 GCSE (9-1) in Latin

The qualification will enable students to study Latin at A-level; it is also very beneficial for those intending to study Classical Civilisation or Ancient History. 

Career directions could include:

Latin is highly regarded by university admission tutors and employers. The logic and sympathy integral to a Classical degree can be applied across a range of creative, research and management positions. Among possible future career we find academia, civil service, design and visual arts, drama and performing arts, journalism, legal profession, media, medical profession, public relations, project management, programming and web design, publishing and science researcher.