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Latin

Latin

What is it about at sixth-form level?

By studying Latin at A level, you will explore the language, literature and culture of the Roman world of the first century BCE and the first century CE, which were interesting times of great change. You will take a critical look at Latin poetry and prose and the society which produced it. Themes of ideology, immigration, power, imperialism, citizenship, status and identity are considered within this context. From studying these issues with a focus on a particular people of a different time, you will gain a perspective from which to evaluate other cultures, ancient and modern, including your own. You will be developing a sensitive and analytical approach to language generally, which will help in the understanding and application of English and other languages.

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Lower Sixth
Upper Sixth

Why study it and what skills does it develop?

The study of Latin has long been a respected part of an education and it develops a wide range of skills. In order to master the complex grammar, you will have to develop a logical mind. Alongside learning linguistics, you will be exploring historical, philosophical and literary ideas and making connections between them and the modern world. Close analysis of texts will develop a careful eye for detail and an appreciation of literary form. Classicists have long been admired for the measured and beautiful powers of oral and written expression such study yields. These universally-respected attributes means that Latin works well with any combination of academic subjects.

What prior knowledge and skills are required?

A grade 7 or higher in GCSE Latin is desirable with a 6 as a minimum as the jump from GCSE to A level is considerable. You will also need an interest in literature, history and politics.

How is the course assessed?

A level

For the A level, there are four exams. Paper 1 (Unseen Translation) will test students’ ability to translate seen prose and verse. Paper 2 (Prose Composition or Comprehension) will test their ability to understand more advanced prose unseen passages or their ability to translate into Latin. Paper 3 (Prose Literature) will test students’ knowledge and understanding of Cicero Pro Cluentio. The Paper 4 (Verse Literature) will test their knowledge and understand Catullus. Paper 1 is worth 33% of the A level and lasts 1 hour 45 minutes. Paper 2 is worth 17% and lasts 1 hour 15 minutes. Papers 3 and 4 are worth 25% each and last 2 hours each.

Reading

To be confirmed at the start of the course

Catullus: A Selection of Poems Paperback – (16 Apr 2020)

By John Godwin (Editor)
ISBN-10: 1350060224 and ISBN-13: 978-1350060227

Cicero: Pro Cluentio: A Selection Paperback – (16 Apr 2020)

By Matthew Barr (Editor)
ISBN-10: 1350060348 and ISBN-13: 978-1350060340

Cicero: Murder Trials: ‘In Defence of Sextus Roscius of America’, ‘In Defence of Aulus Cluentius Habitus’, etc (Penguin Classics) (1975)

By Michael Grant (Editor)
ISBN-10: 014044288X and ISBN-13: 978-0140442885

Exam Board and Specification Codes

A level: OCR H443

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Grades achieved at MPW: A*AA Progressed to: Exeter University (International Relations)

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Grades achieved at MPW: AAB Progressed to: Southampton University (Business Innovation)

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Grades achieved at MPW: AAA Progressed to: Warwick University (Chemistry)

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Gabriel

Grades achieved at MPW: AAA Progressed to: Nottingham University (Philosophy)

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Grades achieved at MPW: A*AA Progressed to: University of York (Law)

"Honestly, I could not imagine when I joined MPW that, due to language and adaptation barriers, I would achieve top grades in my first A-level exam sittings. This view changed completely after only a few weeks in the college’s supportive and motivational environment; with teachers who aimed at finding a personal touch with each student and with my Personal Tutor who made my adjustment to the UK education system not only an easy step in my life but, more importantly, an enjoyable one."

Anastasia

Grades achieved at MPW: A*A*A* Progressed to: University College London (Economics)

"International students have many aspects to think about, such as accommodation and guardians, but MPW surprised me by having a highly organised and supportive administration. Also, because most MPW Cambridge students are local, as an ‘international’ student, I found this very useful in both improving my English and in giving me a taste of a genuinely ‘English’ college."

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Grades achieved at MPW: A*A*A* Progressed to: University College London (Mathematics and Statistics)

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Julia

Grades achieved at MPW: A*AABB Progressed to: King's College London (International Relations)

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