Latin
Introducing Latin
Pupils who choose to study Latin begin to learn the subject in Year 6. At this stage they use the Minimus Course book, which provides a lively introduction to the Latin language and the culture of Roman Britain. Pupils learn basic grammar and Latin vocabulary through stories, whilst their knowledge of Roman Britain is broadened by the way of a vividly illustrated range of myths and background information. They acquire fluency in reading simple Latin using the present, imperfect and future tenses in all persons, together with a firm grasp of the nominative, vocative, genitive and ablative noun forms. They also learn to analyse passages of particular difficulty.
Developing Technique
Pupils can also begin to learn Latin in Year 7, but for those who are in their second year of learning the subject, they move on to the Cambridge Latin Course, which they continue to follow in Year 8, mastering all active tenses and translation techniques. Grammatical points covered include all cases of the three groups of nouns, including neuter, plus all forms of the present, imperfect, future and perfect tenses.
Gaining cultural and historical knowledge
Much valuable knowledge of social and historical knowledge is acquired; everyday life in Pompeii, Alexandria and Roman Britain is studied and is consolidated by a trip to Rome and Pompeii in the Spring Term. Pupils may visit Dorchester and Caerleon during Year 8.
