LATINHead of Department: Mr. Kevin Atikson
Teachers: Ms. Benili Stokes, Mr. Hector William
Some benefits of learning Latin include :
- Improves performance in various academic subjects.
- Enhances comprehension of mathematical principles.
- Boosts proficiency in English reading and writing.
- Supports the acquisition of a second modern language.
- Introduces key elements of ancient history, literature, and philosophy.
- Prepares students for diverse careers in science, law, or medicine.
- Fosters skills necessary for coding and computer programming.
- Enhances students’ CVs and strengthens their UCAS applications.
KEY STAGE 3
At Moonstone Academy, students can choose Latin as their Second Language starting in Year 8 and continue through to GCSE. They begin with the Cambridge Latin Course (Books 1-3), gradually translating more complex Latin sentences while developing an understanding of Latin grammar and exploring Roman culture. Topics include the eruption of Mount Vesuvius and the destruction of Pompeii, Roman entertainment, Roman Britain (including Aquae Sulis, modern-day Bath), and the impact of the Roman invasion on the Britons.
In Year 8, students have nine lessons per two-week cycle, while Year 9 students have eight. Class sizes generally range from 20 to 30 students, providing an engaging and interactive learning environment.
KEY STAGE 4
After choosing Latin at GCSE, students continue studying the language while reading and analyzing various prose and verse texts in the original Latin, preparing for exams at the end of Year 11. The exam board used is OCR.
Students deepen their understanding of Latin grammar and vocabulary, which they apply to accurate translations and to answering questions on Latin passages. The literature texts studied may change, but recent verse texts have included Virgil’s Aeneid (Book 2: Escape from Burning Troy and Book 12: The Battle between Aeneas and Turnus), along with love poetry from Catullus, Horace, and Ovid. Recent prose texts include Caesar’s writings on the Druids, Cicero’s case against Clodius, Tacitus’ history of Germanicus, and Pliny’s letter about the eruption of Mount Vesuvius. To gain a deeper understanding of these texts, students also explore the historical and cultural contexts and analyze the literary techniques used by the authors.
EXTRA - CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
Every two years, Moonstone Academy offers a GCSE Latin trip to the Bay of Naples, open to all students studying Latin at GCSE or A Level. This five-day trip takes place during the Easter holidays.
Throughout the year, there are various trips and outings for Latin students, such as a Year 8 visit to the Museum of London and several Sixth Form Classics Lecture Days. These experiences enhance students’ understanding of the subject in a real-world context.
DESTINATIONS
Studying Classics showcases your ability to understand complex subjects and develop critical research, analysis, and argumentation skills. You’ll also enhance your creativity and teamwork abilities.
Classics graduates possess strong intellectual and practical skills, making them well-suited for careers in business, consultancy, management, finance, and accountancy. They can also excel in advertising, PR, or marketing, where their communication, creativity, and research skills are highly valued.
“At Moonstone Academy, we are dedicated to providing exceptional support to ensure our students have the opportunities and encouragement they need to thrive and reach their full potential, both academically and in the broader community.”