Latin

Updated: Wed 28 Nov 2012   Share:

Students at The John Lyon School presently start Classics for the first time in Year 8, when each student spends at least one year enjoying a rigorous introduction to the Latin language and Roman civilisation, completing Book I of the well-known Cambridge Latin Course.

Latin forms a foundation to the modern English language, providing valuable linguistic insights to students as a result. Moreover, both French and Spanish (modern languages currently offered at JLS) are both directly descended from Latin. Western civilisation, of course, was shaped predominately by the Greeks and the Romans – our study of Ancient Rome in Year 8 aids students’ appreciation of this vital part of our European heritage.

Latin forms an elective in Year 9 at The John Lyon School; students opting to continue with the subject build upon the firm foundation established in Year 8 to develop a more detailed and sophisticated understanding of Latin language and Roman period civilisation.

Year 9 Latin allows students to complete Book II of the Cambridge Latin Course with rigour and extended learning, facilitating invaluable preparation towards GCSE Level studies in the subject. The study of Roman Britain allows students unique insights into the ancient heritage of Britain, while our examination of Roman period Egypt provides more diverse opportunities and enhanced variety of content.

Latin represents a high-value subject at Key Stage 4, with students at The John Lyon School able to undertake a double award through the WJEC examination syllabus, emerging with one qualification in Latin Language and a second qualification in Latin Literature. Well-motivated and able students can even opt to undertake a third award in Advanced Latin Language. In the first year of KS4 studies, students will focus primarily on extending their intermediate linguistic skills and knowledge, utilising Books III and IV of the Cambridge Latin Course. The second year of KS4 studies will emphasise preparation for examination in authentic set texts, both thematic and narrative.