Latin

Why study Latin?

Latin is a highly regarded subject which makes one’s GCSE portfolio stand out from the crowd; it shows that you have brilliant analytical skills as well as a good memory. There are obvious advantages in studying Latin at GCSE not just for capable modern linguists, but also for any candidate who aims to develop cognitive skills and intellectual flexibility, which will be useful in higher education and in a wide range of jobs.

Latin should not be seen as a possible choice only for outstanding linguists. High grades are attainable by any candidate who has made a good start to the subject in the Lower School, and enjoys studying the language.

How is the course examined?

Examination

Language (50%) 1 hour

30 minutes

Verse Literature (25%) 1 hour

Literature and Culture (25%) 1 hour

The Language papers require candidates to translate from Latin into English, as well as to answer some comprehension questions on passages recounting stories drawn from the topics of mythology, domestic life and history. There are optional sentences to translate from English into Latin.

The Literature paper requires candidates to answer translation, comprehension and literary appreciation questions on the verse texts which have been studied in class.

The Literature and Culture paper requires candidates to respond to sources from Ancient Rome.

What does the course cover?

The OCR syllabus aims to give you a reading knowledge of intermediate level Latin texts. The course focuses primarily on language in the first year, offering a gradual introduction to Latin literature thereafter.

The linguistic element of the course requires a prescribed vocabulary of approximately 450 words, a firm grasp of grammar and syntax, and the ability to translate all of the main sentence constructions.

Pupils at Tormead start the course already familiar with a substantial number of words and grammar points, which are further consolidated throughout the course.

We use Taylor & Cullen’s Latin to GCSE which takes a more structured approach to the language and includes extensive practice in grammar and syntax. An appreciation of the literature set texts in the original Latin is also part of the OCR syllabus. You will study the works of various verse authors, based upon a central theme. You will also discuss primary sources and what they tell us about aspects of Ancient Rome.