Latin
What is it about?
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 2,500 years.
This option is only available to those who are currently studying Latin.
What sort of work is done?
Component 1 trains the student in understanding and appreciating the Latin language. Students will learn more constructions and words to broaden their understanding of the Latin language. This is done using the Cambridge Latin Couse.
Components 2 and 3a use original texts and sources as created by the Romans. In component 2, there is a mix of different texts and sources on a single theme, allowing us to explore an aspect of Roman life. In component 3a, we will explore a mythological story and the meanings behind it. In these two components, all texts and sources examined are studied beforehand; students will be trained to consider the themes and opinions that these texts and sources explore.
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.
How is it examined?
The qualification is examined by written exam only.
Component 1: 1 hour 30 minutes exam, 50% of GCSE
Component 2: 1 hour 15 minutes, 30% of GCSE
Component 3a: 1 hour, 20% of GCSE
What qualification will I get? What could it lead to?
- Eduqas 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.
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. Steven Fry, JK Rowling and Tom Hiddleston are some of the most prominent supporters (and graduates) of Latin; many also go into prominent roles in politics and successful firms, including Jonathan Evans (former head of MI5) and Mark Zuckerberg (founder of Facebook).
Career directions could include:
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.
