KEY STAGE 3

Year 8 and 9 Latin

Latin is a popular option for pupils in Year 8.  Those who choose the subject at this juncture embark on a two year course with a twofold aim:

1) To develop comprehension of the Latin language.
2) To increase understanding concerning the customs and values of Roman civilisation. 
 

The subject is taught using the Cambridge Latin Course.
 
In Year 8 pupils study the Cambridge Latin Course Book I, in which they follow the story of the Roman banker Caecilius and his family, as they live their lives in Pompeii during the first century AD against the backdrop of the supposedly dormant Mt. Vesuvius. 

In Year 9 pupils study the Cambridge Latin Course Book II, honing their linguistic ability as they read about Caecilius’ son Quintus, whose adventures take him to the most remote and exotic corners of the Roman Empire, including Egypt and Britain.

A range of teaching and learning methods are used throughout the course.  A healthy amount of rigorous translation work and vocabulary learning is supplemented with computer based activities, video clips, model making and drama activities in order to make the supposedly dead language come to life.
 

Pupils are encouraged to use the Cambridge Latin Course website in order to extend their learning beyond the classroom.  Language tests (vocabulary and grammar) develop linguistic skills and give the opportunity for self assessment, while links to civilisation topics provide additional material for pupils who wish to pursue their interest in a particular area.
 

All pupils take the Cambridge Latin Course graded tests, which assess their progress throughout the course.  The results of the tests are sent to the Cambridge School Classics Project for external moderation and pupils who pass receive certificates in recognition of their effort and achievement. The tests provide a satisfying conclusion for those who do not continue their studies to GCSE level and serve as an important stepping stone for those that do.

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