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Classical Civilisation
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Classical Civilisation OCR GCSE [9-1] - Syllabus J199 Mr J Mayes & Mr L Plum
What do I need to know and be able to do before taking this course?
This GCSE course requires no prior knowledge of the subject. However, previous information covered in the Roman Life sections of the Years 7-9 Latin course may be useful but is certainly not essential. Similarly, any work on the Romans and Greeks covered at Key Stage 2 (Junior School) might also be useful in putting some of the information in context. All candidates study the same course from scratch and the only requirements are a genuine interest in the Classical world of Greece and Rome, an enquiring mind, and a willingness to learn, assess and discuss the many and varied aspects of Classical life that this course covers.
What will I learn?
The subject offers the opportunity to study the culture and society of the Ancient Mediterranean world. You will investigate elements of the culture, myths, sociopolitical and historical aspects of the Roman and Greek civilisations.
How is the course structured and assessed?
1. Thematic Study (50% of total marks)
Selected from one of the following: Unit J199/11; Myth and Religion Unit J199/12; Women in the Ancient World
2. Literature and Culture (50% of total marks)
Selected from one of the following: Unit J199/21; The Homeric World Unit J199/22; Roman City Life Unit J199/23; War and Warfare
What is the nature and timing of the coursework?
There is no coursework element in this course. Both units taken are assessed by final written examination at the end of the second year of study.
What Sixth Form subjects will this course be useful for?
Pupils who have studied Classical Civilisation at GCSE have found that the skills of analysis and appreciation they have developed have been useful in the widest possible range of Sixth Form subjects: Sciences, English, Languages, Humanities – particularly History and RPE - and, of course, Classical Civilisation at full A Level!
What were the GCSE Classical Civilisation exam results like last year?
In the last year of examination of the subject at Wells, results were very good with 100% achieving Levels 4 -9 [A* - C Grades] and 50% of those achieving the top two grades - Levels 8 and 9. We believe that this is a realistic reflection of the levels achievable and is the benchmark set by the department given the ability range of pupils anticipated to opt for this course.
