LATINA - LINGUA AUREA – THE GOLDEN TONGUE

Advanced Level

Latin is not a dead language. It is the eternal language. A Level Latin involves the in-depth study of language and literature. During this process we hope that students will savour the broader cultural legacy of the Ancient World. In this way our understanding of Roman and Classical Civilisation is enhanced and we can better appreciate the achievement of the Romans and their contribution to the development of the Modern World.

Study of Latin and Classics will help students on the way to achieving their higher education aspirations in whatever field. This is because Latin has formed the basis of all academic, literary and intellectual vocabulary and terminology since the Renaissance. Latin is also an extra asset for any serious modern linguist. Universities and employers recognise that the study of a Classical Language and the Civilisation which underpinned it indicates a capacity for taking on a challenge, for careful and detailed application to tasks, and nurturing an instinct for the finer points of language use and an ability to grasp complex concepts.

With only a few students taking Latin at this level (five or six is the average), the lessons are both challenging and informal. There is a great deal of discussion and much attention is paid to the needs and interests of the individual student. We work hard to improve our knowledge of the Latin Language in preparation for the 1½ hour AS Foundation Language Paper.

Of the five lessons per week at least two are spent on literature. We read both prose and verse in Year 12. The total lines of text is slightly longer than those studied at G.C.S.E. and is examined by one paper containing questions for translation, commentary and an open essay.

We deal with outstanding works of literature which have not only stood the test of time but
have also influenced the our literary heritage and the thought and writings of more recent years. The critical study of our prescribed texts is the focus of the knowledge and experience gained from the diversity of the course: it is the central object of what will be two years of valuable and rewarding work.
There is substantial spin off in the development of skills and transferable knowledge applicable to other A Level subjects involving literature and language. Use of English is rewarded in most subjects and Latin will help develop better mastery of English. These skills are built up by honing translation techniques, mastery of grammar and the close analysis of texts and literary techniques.

There will be two modules in Year 12 and two in Year 13. In total therefore, there will be 4 papers.