Latin

Latin (GROUP 2)

All candidates, both at Higher and Standard Level, take the three parts listed below.

Part 1: Study of the language

Students improve their language skills through consolidation of grammar and general reading from classical literature through selected passages for unseen translation from a range of authors. The grammar covered at GCSE level is revised; then a more in-depth study is made of the nuances and complexities of the Latin language. Students build up confidence at translating independently, as well as developing dictionary skills. In the second year we begin to specialise, reading extracts from Ovid’s great poem, The Metamorphoses; passages from this author are set for translation in the examination. Dictionaries may be taken into the examination room, and there is focus on broad vocabulary learning in both years based on recommended lists generated by the IBO and the North London Collegiate School Classics department.

Part 2: Literary Study

We study at least two genres over the course of the two years (the Higher Level prescription is greater in length). These vary from year to year: the texts are often drawn from the epic poetry of Virgil, the great, ground-breaking historian Tacitus, the poetry of Catullus and Horace, or the philosophical and scientific poet Lucretius. There are also options of literary texts based around a theme, such as the role of women in ancient Rome or social criticism. In addition, particularly at Higher Level, we read further in translation to gain a broader feel for the authors and their world. At both Higher and Standard Level students are tested on their study of literature through a single examination. Part 3: Individual Study Internal Assessment

Candidates complete a piece of internal assessment known as a Research Dossier, an annotated collection of source materials relating to a topic in classical history, literature, language, religion, mythology, art or archaeology, chosen by the candidate. Recent topics covered have included the role of Vestal Virgins, mock sea battles, Roman attitudes to wine, Roman attitudes towards doctors, the Roman household gods and punishments in the Roman army. This part of the course offers students the opportunity to explore their own areas of interest through close analysis of primary sources.