WHY SHOULD YOU STUDY A LEVEL CLASSICAL STUDIES?
A Level Classical Studies involves the study of the civilisations of Greece and Rome in the Classical period. Its multi-disciplinary approach combines elements of history, literature and history of art. The world of the Greeks and Romans has had an astonishing influence on the western world. The evidence is all around Europe in the language, buildings and politics.
The A Level in Classical Studies will hone your analytical and evaluative skills and teach you to develop and support independent arguments in your essays. It complements A Levels in English Literature, History, Philosophy and Politics and the skills you will acquire provide a solid foundation for the study of Classics, Archaeology, English, History, History of Art, Politics, Philosophy or Drama at university.
WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW TO ENROL?
- All of the set texts are studied in English, so you do not need to be able to read in Greek or Latin, although having IGCSE Latin would be an advantage.
- A minimum of a Grade B or 6 in either IGCSE/ GCSE English Literature or History is required before starting on the A Level.
- A GCSE/IGCSE at Grade C or 4 in both English Language and Maths.
THE SYLLABUS AND THE EXAM
The course prepares you for the Cambridge (CIE) Syllabus 9274. Please note that exams only take place in November.
For the AS in Classical Studies, you will sit the following 2 papers:
Paper 1: Greek Civilisation – 50% of the AS grade and 25% of the overall A Level grade (1 hour and 30 minutes) Paper 2: Roman Civilisation – 50% of the AS grade and 25% of the overall A Level grade (1 hour and 30 minutes).
To complete the full A Level, in addition to the AS papers above, students will take the following 2 papers:
Paper 3: Classical History: Sources and Evidence – 25% of the overall A Level grade (1 hour and 30 minutes) Paper 4: Classical Literature: Sources and Evidence – 25% of the overall A Level grade (1 hour and 30 minutes).
Students studying with us will study the following options for A Level Papers 3 and 4:
Paper 3: The Changing World of Athens – Its Friends and Enemies Paper 4: Gods and Heroes – The Importance of the Epic.
For the set texts we cover for the above papers, ask to see our booklist which we will be pleased to send if you have not received it.