Higher Latin
Topics Taught
There are two assessable elements at Higher level.
Translation: in S5, grammar revision continues through the use of “The Latin Language” and through translation practice. Pupils are introduced to some new grammar (gerunds and gerundives) and consolidate and extend their translation skills through translating Latin passages with more complex sentence structure. Translations are extracts from the Roman prose author, Cicero.
Interpretation: as at Standard Grade, pupils have the opportunity to read Latin poetry and prose written by Roman authors. The prescribed texts are Virgil’s Aeneid (Book 6) and part of Cicero’s legal speech, In Verrem. These are central works in Latin literature and pupils are required to analyse the linguistic techniques of the authors, scan lines of poetry and write essay-style answers to questions. Booklets containing the texts and notes are used in the Interpretation element.
Homework
Homework for Higher Latin often consists of revising grammar and translating passages of Cicero. A weekly translation homework exercise is set. Pupils are also asked to learn lines of the prescribed texts and to answer questions about and extended responses to them.
Assessments (Internal and External)
A pass in all three Units and in External Assessment is necessary to secure a course award. Details are as follows :
Internal Assessment :
Interpretation (Prose: Cicero)
Interpretation (Verse: Virgil)
Translation
External Assessment :
Prelim examinations assess translation skills, the whole of the Virgil prescription and the majority of the Cicero text. The Higher Latin prelim consists of NAB unit tests.
Informal tests in any of the above elements may be conducted during the session, at the discretion of the class teacher.
Next Steps
Pupils securing a good Higher pass are eligible to further study Latin at Advanced Higher level.