Classics at GCSE

Latin, Greek and Classical Civilisation are offered at GCSE level. The OCR syllabus is followed for Latin and Greek, AQA for Classical Civilisation. Boys making their subject choices at the end of Year 9 may take on Classical Civilisation regardless of whether they have studied the subject previously. Pupils with no prior knowledge are in no way disadvantaged since the course is taught from a basic level. Latin and Greek are only open to boys who have studied the languages in Year 9. Classical Civilisation has always been a popular option with about 20-25 candidates choosing the subject yearly. A large group of boys opt for Latin GCSE. Boys who have shown exceptional talent and linguistic promise may undertake the demanding "combined course" of Latin and Greek. These pupils follow an accelerated and intense course in Years 10-11 of Latin and Greek in 4 timetabled periods per week. There is a Classics Clinic available for any boys which require further assistance or support with their studies.

GCSE Latin consists of 2 language and 2 literature papers. Boys are taught the GCSE language material in Year 10 and year 11 is primarily dedicated to the study of set-texts. This involves exploring modest selections from the great canon of Roman literature in the original language, comprising poetry and prose. A sensitive and analytical approach to literature is developed and boys get an insight into rhetorical techniques and devices. There is no controlled assessment element. OCR have recently adapted the course to be modular, opposed to linear, which gives pupils greater flexibility to take units early, ease exam pressure and allows the opportunity for taking re-sits.

GCSE Greek is a demanding course, not only because of the complex nature of this language but because timetable space is limited. Boys are required to do much self-study and the work load is challenging. Similarly to Latin, Year 10 is assigned to language work and the text book Athenaze is used and supplemented with John Taylor's Greek to GCSE. Two set texts are studied in the GCSE year, either of Homer's great epics the Iliad or the Odyssey, and either Herodotus' Histories or the philosophy of Plato. These are read in the original language. There is also the option to take the subject as a "short course" which involves sitting 2 papers, opposed to 4, and this qualifies candidates to gain a half-GCSE. This is a useful option for pupils who would like to gain a formal qualification in the subject but feel the workload of the full GCSE course is unmanageable for them.

GCSE Classical Civilisation involves the study of ancient literature in translation and exploring aspects of Greek and Roman history and society. Currently the literature modules involve studying the Odyssey and Euripides' tragedy Medea; the topic for controlled assessment is the deranged Roman emperor Nero. The historical topics are usually Pompeii and Herculaneum or Greek festivals, including the Olympic Games.

Classics at GCSE

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