Clayesmore

Sixth Form A-level Courses Latin

Latin

Board: OCR

Syllabus: AS – H039; A2 – H439

Modules

1. AS Latin Language –This paper tests familiarity with the language of Roman prose authors from the 1st century BC to the 1st century AD. Candidates must translate a passage of Latin prose into English and either another, shorter, passage, or some English to Latin sentences. There is a prescribed vocabulary of approximately 750 words.
2. Latin Verse and Prose Literature – Candidates will be examined on two prescribed texts: one prose and one verse (approximately 225 lines of each). The paper tests understanding and appreciation of the text within the social and historical context. Some translation is required. Set texts from 2009 to 2011 will be Ovid: Metamorphoses VIII and Cicero: In Catilinam I.
3. A2 Latin Verse – This paper has two sections, one examining candidates’ knowledge of a prescribed verse text, and the other requiring translation and comprehension of a passage of unseen verse. Set texts from 2009 to 2011 are either Virgil Aeneid 1 or a selection of poems by Catullus.
4. Latin Prose – The format is similar to the verse paper: Candidates will be tested on a prescribed prose text (from 2009 to 2011 either Tacitus: Annals XIV or Livy: Book XXIII) as well as answering translation and comprehension questions on an unseen passage of prose.

Method of Assessment

AS 2 exams of 1½ hours (2x 25%)
A2 2 exams of 2 hours (2x 25%)

Further information

A Level Latin is a study of language and literature in roughly equal measure. The AS qualification is a natural progression from GCSE Latin as there is still a helpful prescribed vocabulary for the translations. The texts are not too long and if you have enjoyed GCSE you will certainly enjoy AS.

The A2 qualification is obviously more demanding but if you expect to get a good grade at GCSE A2 is well worth considering. The prescribed texts each cover 300 lines, but this is a natural progression from AS.

Latin A Level would be suitable for someone who has achieved a good pass at GCSE Latin and who is enthusiastic to take their study to the next level. Latin caters for both logical and creative minds: the complexities and logical structures of the language might well suit a mathematician, whereas the extraordinarily beautiful and powerful literature would appeal to those with an artistic streak. If you have inclinations in both directions, this is definitely the subject for you!

Latin A Level looks good on any CV. It shows that you can think – really think! – and analyse complex issues; that you will undoubtedly have an excellent grasp of the English language (roughly half of English words are derived from Latin); and yet you will also be able to discuss some of the world’s finest literature at office drinks parties! Do not discount Latin A Level just because you are a scientist or a mathematician. If you enjoyed GCSE, you will love AS, and it will be worthwhile taking, even if you do not go on to study A2.