LATIN

Studying Latin offers pupils the chance to explore the roots of modern European languages and also examine ancient epic literature on topics as diverse as law, love, and what it means to be human. GCSE Latin is an academically rigorous subject which develops pupils’ linguistic skills, and is therefore valued by top universities, but it is also hugely enjoyable. To study some of the world’s first (and best) literature, in the original language, is an exciting opportunity for pupils to examine the culture and history of that which has shaped the modern world.

Course Outline

The GCSE course first develops an ability in the use of language through translation of passages of Latin into English and answering comprehension questions from other passages of Latin; also, translation of simple sentences from English into Latin and secondly, an appreciation of Latin literature through the study of Roman authors (e.g.  Catullus, Ovid and Virgil and the writers and Historians Tacitus and Pliny).  Within this general framework reference is continually made to the influence of Latin on English and other modern languages, and comparisons are drawn between many aspects of Roman Civilisation and our own. 

We study the GCSE OCR Exam Board Specification. Final examinations take place in Trinity of Year 11 and there is no coursework.

Assessment

The examination consists of three papers:

Language

• 1 hour 30 minutes • Examination • 100 marks • 50% • 1 hour • Examination • 50 marks • 25% • 1 hour • Examination • 50 marks • 25%

The Language paper includes unseen translations of Latin into English and comprehension exercises, as well as an option to either answer questions on Latin grammar or translate three English sentences into Latin. The Literature papers will consist of questions and translations on the passages already studied in class.

Prose Literature Verse Literature

For examination in 2025/6, the set texts for the Prose Literature are likely to be “Messalina”, which is an account of the affairs and scandals of the Emperor Claudius’ third wife, written by the Roman Historian, Tacitus. Pupils will also study the text “avunculus meus”, which will contain two letters written by Pliny the Younger in praise of his uncle, Pliny the Elder. For the Verse Literature, the set text is likely to be Book I of the Aeneid, one of the most famous and engaging sections of Virgil’s epic poem, when the Trojan prince, Aeneas, having escaped from the burning city of Troy (destroyed by the Greeks), is shipwrecked on the coast of Carthage.

Who is GCSE Latin suitable for?

Latin is normally chosen by those already studying it and who have been recommended as being able to complete the GCSE course successfully. 

Latin is an excellent subject to develop analytical skills and communication in written form.  Rome’s literature dealt with the universal themes of love, hate, religion, war, family and so forth; in this respect it is timeless.  Pupils who enjoy modern languages should seriously consider studying GCSE Latin to underpin their understanding and abilities in languages, which have drawn heavily on Latin. 

Ms E Amos Head of Classics

era@wellingboroughschool.org