IB Latin and Greek count as Group 2 foreign languages. More than one language can be taken by using Group 6 or taking ESS.
Why Study Latin?
The study of Latin develops critical thinking and logical analysis. Few subjects allow the study of a language, and History, Philosophy, Literature, Society, Geography, Law… It also promotes skills that are universally applicable to further education and employment. The Classics Department has a distinguished record of success at Oxford and Cambridge. Classicists are much sought after in Banking, Law, Journalism, Accountancy and the Arts.
Course Content
Standard Level
- 35% – Unseen translation and comprehension paper – 90 mins paper
- 35% – Set text paper on one prescribed text – 90 mins paper – comprehension and textual analysis.
- 30% – Independent research dossier exploring original sources on any Roman life or literature topic of the pupil’s choosing
Higher Level
- 30% – Unseen translation and comprehension paper – 120 mins paper
- 30% – Set text paper on two prescribed texts – 90 mins paper – comprehension and textual analysis.
- 20% – Independent research dossier exploring original sources on any Roman life or literature topic of the pupil’s choosing
- 20% –Composition coursework – pupils write an original piece of Latin, supported by an explanation and analysis of their work.
Requirements
For Higher Level, Pupils must have attained at least a 7 grade (but usually 8/9) in GCSE Latin or equivalent. For Standard Level, pupils must have attained at least a 7 grade in GCSE Latin or equivalent. They will have already studied some literature and have started to develop techniques for analysing and writing about verse and prose texts. Pupils will have a secure grasp of basic Latin grammar and syntax, will be motivated and organised in their learning and preparation, will be enthusiastic about studying literature, appreciating its art and considering the implicit attitudes, and will want to research an area of Roman life or literature, learning from original sources and responding to them.
Post-Wellington
Pupils taking Latin in sixth form go on to study an impressive range of degrees at university. It is most obviously an excellent complementary subject for those pursuing Classics, English Literature, Philosophy, Modern Languages, Archaeology and Anthropology, and History. However, Wellingtonians taking Latin have also recently progressed to degrees as varied as Economics, Geography, Medicine, Dentistry and Mathematics. In short, Latin opens up an extremely extensive range of career options post-university, while those pursuing Classics will find themselves highly prized by employers in the legal, political, finance and banking sectors.
Contact for further information:
Dr M Johncock mspj@wellingtoncollege.org.uk