The Romans and their language have had a profound influence upon the modern world. In this subject, students are introduced to the basic grammatical rules of Latin and read texts that explore Rome’s origins, both historical and mythological, up until the birth of the Roman Republic in 509 BCE.
In Year 9 students are taught to understand the Latin language for the purpose of reading simple Latin texts, and learn about the origins of Roman civilisation. Students are taught the basic linguistic elements of both English and Latin sentences, and how these elements are put together to create meaning. Students are also trained to pronounce Latin according to accepted classical conventions.
Year 9 students complete part 1 of John Taylor and Henry Cullen’s renowned UK Latin to GCSE course.
In Semester 1, we read texts focused on the myths and legends the Romans told about their own distant past. Students learn to recognise the fundamental forms of the most common Latin word types and how these may be combined to create simple sentences.
In Semester 2, we read about the kings who founded and ruled Rome in the centuries prior to the rise of the Roman republic. More advanced word types and grammatical structures are introduced, and core vocabulary is expanded.
The following areas of study are assessed throughout the year:
vocabulary
grammar
translation
comprehension
Additionally, there are Semester 1 and 2 examinations.
Please see the booklist.