We offer the most traditional of subjects through both the most traditional and the most contemporary of teaching techniques: the tried and tested methods for learning Latin run parallel to the cutting-edge CLC website. Classical Civilisation offers boys the opportunity for research via books or the internet when preparing projects or coursework. Greek provides an opportunity for very academic boys to meet tough linguistic challenges.
Staff
Mrs J Hone BA (Head of Department)
Mrs R L Bradley BA
Mr G D Feely MA
Aims
The Classics Department at BGSB aims to inculcate knowledge and enthusiasm for the classical world, be it through Latin and Greek texts in the original languages or in translation. We encourage boys to use the linguistic and historical knowledge acquired through the study of Classics to support their learning in other subjects and to understand its relevance to the world in which they live.
Outline of Work
All boys study Latin in the Second Form and most will carry on in the Third Form, after which they have an option to study the language to GCSE, following the OCR specification. We use the highly regarded Cambridge Latin Course, which provides a linguistic, cultural and literary base, as well as a variety of other resources necessary for literature papers or coursework. Latin AS and A2 courses are options for boys in the Sixth and Seventh Forms, each of which involves three modules based on the study of Latin language and literature.
Classical Civilisation is taught in the Third Form and is available as an option for GCSE. This course offers boys a conduit to the classical world through the study of literature in translation and Ancient History. The OCR specification is varied and offers, for example: Epic; Tragedy; Art and Architecture; Roman Britain; and Roman Sport and Leisure. The OCR Classical Civilisation AS and A2 courses offer a more in-depth look at similar areas of study.
Greek is available as a one-year course in the Fifth Form and is suited to boys with a keen interest in languages who enjoy learning at a fast pace. The OCR specification offers some flexibility, but language, literature and civilisation are all elements of the course. AS and A2 Greek are also options and follow the same structure as the Latin AS/A2 courses.
Teaching methods and resources
The Classics Department is based in two specialist rooms, both of which have a television and a video or DVD player. We have an excellent stock of books either directly related to specific areas of the specifications or contained in the Classics Library. The CLC has a website, which we use frequently, running parallel to the Latin course book, and we have the facility to use technology in the classroom.
Extra-curricular activities
As a department we are committed to off-site study and run many trips to places of interest around the country. Recent visits have included: Chester and the Grosvenor Museum; London and the British Museum (both of which have been joint ventures with BGGS); Manchester Art Gallery; the Lady Lever Art Gallery; and the Bloomsbury Theatre. We also welcome visiting speakers to the school and have been entertained by ‘Jefficus’ the Roman soldier and by Alex Horne (who performed at the Edinburgh Festival last year). The Junior Classical Society provides a variety of activities for younger boys and this year we have invited the girls to join us to make Greek vases, play ‘Tabula’ and borrow books from the Classics Library.