Latin
Latin is a highly-prized academic subject and builds on the knowledge, skills and understanding established at GCSE. The Latin specification teaches the language skills which enable learners to read both prose and verse texts in the original language.
Latin is a highly-prized academic subject and builds on the knowledge, skills and understanding established at GCSE. The Latin specification teaches the language skills which enable learners to read both prose and verse texts in the original language.
To study this subject you will need at least a Grade 7 in Latin and it is strongly recommended you have at least a Grade 7 in GCSE English Literature.
What will you learn?
In A-Level Latin, you will develop advanced translation skills while studying classical literature in its original form and exploring the culture, history, and ideas of the ancient Roman world.
Course Components
Develop your skills in translating and understanding classical Latin through a range of prose and verse texts. You will build a strong grasp of grammar and vocabulary, while learning to analyse unseen passages with accuracy and confidence. The course also explores how language, style and context shape meaning, deepening your appreciation of Latin as a living intellectual discipline.
Study some of the most influential works of the ancient world in their original Latin. You will explore themes such as power, love, conflict and identity, while analysing the literary techniques used by authors like Virgil, Ovid or Tacitus. The course develops your ability to respond critically to texts, understand their historical context, and engage with ideas that continue to resonate today.
Skills you will develop
Language Translation
Translating Latin texts accurately into English.
Grammar & Linguistic Analysis
Understanding Latin sentence structure and vocabulary.
Literary Analysis
Studying classical literature and exploring themes and style.
Cultural Understanding
Exploring the history and society of ancient Rome.
Students who study this subject, often have careers in...
How will you be assessed?
OCRAS
Latin Language
1hr 30minTranslation from Latin into English, with the option of translating English into Latin OR answering comprehension questions on an unseen passage. There is a vocabulary list which will be learned over the course of the year.
AS
Latin Literature
2hrA study of 400 lines of prescribed verse and prose authors. For assessment in 2024-2025 these will be Cicero (Prose) and Virgil (Verse).
A2
Unseen Translation
1hr 45minTranslation of one passage of unseen prose and one passage of unseen verse from Latin into English.
A2
Prose Composition or Comprehension
1hr 15minEither a short translation, comprehension and grammar questions OR translate a passage of at least 100 word from English into Latin.
A2
Prose Literature
2hrComprehension, translation and analysis questions on two set texts and an essay on one set text, drawing upon additional reading in English (Cicero, Tacitus or Livy).
A2
Verse Literature
2hrComprehension, translation and analysis questions on two set texts and an essay on one set text, drawing upon additional reading in English (Virgil, Juvenal or Ovid).
Sixth Form Trips and Enrichment
Bring Latin to life beyond the classroom through unforgettable experiences and academic enrichment. Explore the ancient world first-hand on international study trips to Rome and the Bay of Naples, where you can walk through the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, stand in the Colosseum, visit the Roman Forum, and experience the landscapes, art and architecture that shaped the classical world you study. Deepen your appreciation of classical theatre at the annual Warwick Drama Festival, watching live performances of Greek tragedies and comedies that connect directly to A-Level texts. You will also have opportunities to broaden your academic thinking through Classics lectures at the University of Birmingham, hearing from experts and engaging with ideas beyond the curriculum.
Bring Latin to life beyond the classroom through unforgettable experiences and academic enrichment. Explore the ancient world first-hand on international study trips to Rome and the Bay of Naples, where you can walk through the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, stand in the Colosseum, visit the Roman Forum, and experience the landscapes, art and architecture that shaped the classical world you study. Deepen your appreciation of classical theatre at the annual Warwick Drama Festival, watching live performances of Greek tragedies and comedies that connect directly to A-Level texts. You will also have opportunities to broaden your academic thinking through Classics lectures at the University of Birmingham, hearing from experts and engaging with ideas beyond the curriculum.
Who will teach you?
Miss E Wood
Head of Classics
Mrs E O'Connor
Teacher of Latin
Students who study this subject, often get accepted at...
Discover More
Our mission is to nurture confident, considerate and intellectually curious young women.