Latin GCSE

ad absurdum Latin GCSE amor et melle et felle est fecundissimus Exam Board:

WJEC/ Eduqas

This course gives you the opportunity to take a GCSE in Latin. Now fully established as an Option at KS4 the subject has grown in popularity. Latin is not only an academic exercise in its own right, but also: • Gives insights into other cultures and the background of our own • Throws light on contemporary moral and political issues • Is a sound basis for learning other languages • Supports study in Ancient History, Classical Civilisation and

Archaeology • Develops vocabulary by exploring the etymology of words • Is fun and discussions about Harry Potter, football mottos and slogans do occur, along with lots of discussion about the life of the Romans.

How the course is assessed

Latin Language: 1 hour and 30 minute exam (50% of GCSE). Latin Literature and Sources (themes): 1 hour & 15 minute exam (30% of GCSE). Roman Civilisation: 1 hour exam (20% of GCSE).

Suitable Candidates

As this is a difficult GCSE with time constraints you do need to be motivated and organised. You must be prepared to work hard at home and independently.

Latin has traditionally been seen as a ‘gold standard’ subject as far as difficulty is concerned. Indeed, research has shown Latin to be the hardest GCSE at which to gain a top grade. This examination course offered by WJEC at GCSE level allows for schools to deliver a rigorous syllabus involving; becoming proficient at translating Latin, responding personally to literature they study and learning about Ancient History. The emphasis on rote learning has gone!

It is a great choice for supporting a career in law, medicine, archaeology, science and nature (inc. Veterinary), politics, linguistics, ancient history and theatre.

This subject would go well with Philosophy, Psychology, Science, Languages and other Humanities.

Post 16 Progression Routes

Students study the language, poetry and prose, as well as Roman Life topics including ‘Town Houses’, ‘Slaves and Freedmen’, ‘Roman Food’, ‘the Forum’ and ‘Schools’. Book one of the course is based around life in Pompeii before and around the eruption of Mount Vesuvius – a series of stories about the family of Caecilius the Banker. Book two is about Roman Britain and Book three is on the Roman Army.

Latin AS and A level; Classical Civilisation AS and A level; Ancient History AS and A2.

Student Comments

“During my college interviews, I was asked lots of questions about this course and the interviewers appeared very impressed”.

“Latin is good because it is challenging and fun”.

“I enjoy Latin because I like learning about the language and history at the same time”.

Our language exam requires knowledge of the language features up to the end of Book three (but with the future and passives) and a vocabulary list of around 440 words. Full details can be found at: https://www.cambridgescp.com.