What will students be studying in Latin this year?
The focus of the Year 10 course is Latin language and literature, both prose and verse, which provides an insight into the life and culture of the ancient world. Through the study of Latin set texts student will develop their knowledge and understanding of vocabulary and grammar. The students will practise and revise grammar regularly and complete translations as well as past GCSE papers
Expectations of students in Latin
The Year 10 Latin course takes place at lunchtime for 50 minutes and after school for an hour each week with the expectation that students will take the Latin GCSE at the end of the year. In view of its accelerated nature students have every opportunity to develop their ability to be independent learners. To this end self-assessment is an important element of the course and the weekly starter on an aspect of the set texts and the prescribed vocabulary is especially important.
What are the major assessments this year?
There will be a full mock examination in the spring term in preparation for the three papers to be sat (one Latin language paper comprising comprehension, grammar questions and translation, the Prose Literature paper; the Verse Literature paper).
In the autumn term the students will sit their first Latin language paper.
What will the current performance grade be based on and what do the levels mean?
Students’ performance in mastery of the set texts and in understanding grammar and its applications to translation and comprehension is assessed regularly, both in class and in homework exercises. The assimilation of prescribed vocabulary is an essential part of the course. The current performance grade encompasses all these elements.
What should my daughter do if she feels she is struggling with the subject?
Your daughter should seek advice from her subject tutor who will help identify the precise aspect of the course that is presenting a problem and to be able to suggest ways to aid understanding of grammar or literature. Additional exercises may be set. The course website www. Cambridgescp.com contains some very useful exercises to consolidate learning of vocabulary and grammar.
How can I support my daughter?
The best way to support your daughter is by taking an interest in her work in Latin. No prior knowledge is required! Indeed, if you have never studied Latin you might find it interesting for your daughter to share her learning with you, as this is a powerful way for her to re-enforce her knowledge and understanding of the subject. Do offer to help with testing vocabulary or discussing her set books with you. Look out for interesting articles and television programmes about the classical world which can enlarge your daughter’s knowledge of those times.
What kind of independent work should my daughter be completing?
Although your daughter will be set regular homework targeted at the set texts and at specific vocabulary and grammar she needs to take responsibility for regular revision of all aspects of the course. One hour of homework is set each week.
Who can I contact for further advice and information?
You can contact the Office Team and they will be pleased to follow up any queries: office@newsteadwood.co.uk