Latin
Students are invited to learn Latin based on their end-of-year 6 national test results, specifically the English results.
In Latin lessons we devote most of the time to studying the Latin language, but we also consider the different aspects of the Roman world as well. Lessons take place peripatetically, so students will miss part of a timetabled lesson in order to take part in the Latin course.
Our teaching is based on the Cambridge Latin Course (CLC), which is divided into stages.
| Term | Year 7 | Year 8 | Year 9 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn | CLC stages 1-4 Introduction to Pompeii |
CLC stages 10-12 Greeks and Romans, Roman elections and Vesuvius |
CLC stages 17-18 Roman Alexandria |
| Spring | CLC stages 5-6 Roman theatre |
CLC stages 13-14 Roman Britain |
CLC stages 19-20 Roman Egypt |
| Summer | CLC stages 7-9 Slavery, Gladiators and Roman baths |
CLC stages 15-16 Roman Britain |
Preparation for the level 1 exam |
Aside from classroom learning, students will have the opportunity to visit Colchester Castle (year 8) and the University of Cambridge (year 9) to broaden their understanding of the Romans and the Roman influence on Britain.
How is Latin assessed
Students are assessed on their ability to translate and understand a Latin text once every term. The level of the language assessed is matched with how much Latin grammar they have learnt. There are also regular vocabulary tests.
Students may be entered into the Level 1 exam (roughly half as challenging as a GCSE) at the end of year 9. The department will enter students for the level 1 exam when they are on course to achieve at least a “B” grade in the exam.
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!
