Latin Beginners
Why Study Latin?
This highly successful subject gives you the opportunity to study the language of Ancient Rome. You will study elements of the language, culture and social life of Roman civilisation. As well as being exciting, fun and inspiring, this course helps you develop analytical skills which are useful in any other study.
Entry Requirements
This course can be taken in addition to your main courses. There are no specific entry requirements other than an interest in learning a new language, and/or in the ancient world.
The Course
You will follow the Cambridge Latin Course, and as you go you will develop the translation skills and learn the vocabulary and grammar to achieve Level 1 in the first year.
- You will learn about Pompeii and the eruption of Vesuvius and about Roman life in Britannia (Britain).
- You will gain an understanding about how language works which will help you in your written English and modern languages as well as in Latin.
- You will learn how to read short stories in Latin.
- You will learn about Roman culture.
- You will learn key Latin vocabulary.
Course Activities
You will be reading and translating stories and scripts in Latin, following the characters’ experiences and lives. There is a vocabulary list to be learnt for the exam. Although Latin is no longer a spoken language, students are encouraged to have a go at speaking it as part of the translation process and part of the process of understanding the language. There is a mixture of individual and group work.
Career and Progression Opportunities
This qualification fits with any career progression and is particularly good with languages and any analytical subjects.
Course Structure and Assessment
There are two examination papers on Latin language, testing comprehension and translation skills. Grading is A*, A, B, C, U. There are no grades between C and U. Successful students will gain a Level 1 Certificate. In your second year you can progress to a Level 2 course.
Additional Information
Examination Board: WJEC 1 hour self-study, this can usually be spent learning for weekly vocab tests and writing up lesson notes. Once or twice a half term there will be a speaking or writing task to prepare.