Latin

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Latin

Exam Board: OCR A

What will you learn?

Latin may be an ancient language, but the stories it tells are timeless. From gripping tales of heroism and betrayal to powerful speeches that shaped the course of history, Roman literature offers a window into a world that continues to influence our own. The Latin A Level invites you to step into this world—not through translations, but by reading the original words of some of history’s greatest writers.

You’ll explore the wit and wisdom of Cicero, the drama and beauty of Virgil’s epic poetry, the vivid storytelling of Livy, and the imagination of Ovid. Along the way, you’ll sharpen your language skills, deepen your understanding of Roman culture, and develop analytical tools that are valued in everything from law and politics to science and the arts.

How will you be assessed?

The A Level is assessed through 100% examination:

Component

Duration Weighting

Unseen Translation (Prose & Verse)

1 hour 45 minutes

33% of A-Level

Prose Composition or Comprehension

1 hour 15 minutes

17% of A-Level

Prose Literature 2 hours

25% of A-Level

Verse Literature 2 hours

25% of A-Level

Where could the course take you?

Studying Latin at A Level opens the door to a world of exciting and fulfilling career possibilities. Alongside the joy of exploring a fascinating language, you’ll develop valuable skills, like precision, analytical thinking, clear expression, and cultural awareness, that are highly sought after in fields such as law and politics. Latin also sparks curiosity and develops the communication skills that are essential in journalism, while its logical structure and attention to detail provide a solid foundation for careers in science and medicine.