AS/A Level GCE (for first teaching in 2008) Classics - H038 H438

Notice

Update to specification

The specification for this qualification has been updated. Vertical black lines indicate a significant change to the previous printed version. Changes can be found on pages 30, 41, 42, 44, 45, 46 and 47.

Overview

The Classics suite provides the opportunity for study of classical sources in their contexts. It is flexible, creative, fair and accessible. It reflects the reality of Classics in the classroom and Classics teaching today.

Benefits to you and your learners of teaching this qualification

Developed based on revised QCA subject criteria specified following consultation with key stakeholders in the Classics teaching community
For the first time all Classics subjects will share the same aims and assessment objectives. OCR has responded to this major advance by developing an integrated framework of Classics specifications. OCR's Classics suite offers four named routes (Latin, Classical Greek, Classical Civilisation and Ancient History) and in addition a new subject title, Classics
Reduced assessment burden on students as the number of units has been reduced from 6 units to 4 units (2 at AS, 2 at A2). Overall examination time is reduced by up to 2 hours
Simple straightforward assessment, with no coursework
Unique to OCR's Classics suite, centres may design flexible paths of learning for students following traditional endorsed pathways and offering a creative, new approach to the study of the Ancient World. For the first time, students may combine units of Classical languages, units of literature in translation and units with a historical basis.
Excellent preparation for students wishing to progress to further study. Designed to allow Classics to develop strongly in schools during the coming decade. These specifications will meet the requirements of QCA, and of schools and colleges anxious to retain or promote Classics as a discipline of study central to the Arts and Humanities curriculum.

What units are available?

Classics: Latin

AS Latin Language
AS Latin Verse and Prose Literature
A2 Latin Verse
A2 Latin Prose

Classics: Classical Greek

AS Classical Greek Language
AS Classical Greek Verse and Prose Literature
A2 Classical Greek Verse
A2 Classical Greek Prose

Classics: Classical Civilisation

AS Archaeology and the Classical World
AS Homer's Odyssey and Society
AS Roman Society and Thought
AS Greek Tragedy in its context
AS Greek Historians
AS City Life in Roman Italy
A2 Roman Britain: Life in the outpost of the Empire
A2 Art and Architecture in the Greek World
A2 Comic Drama in the Ancient World
A2 Virgil and the world of the hero

Classics: Ancient History

AS Greek History from original sources
AS Roman History from original sources
A2 Greek History: Conflict and culture
A2 Roman History: The use and abuse of power

Classics

Any two AS units plus any two A2 units. A combination of units is required from at least two subjects (e.g. Latin and Classical Civilisation).

A unit may only count once toward aggregation within the Classics suite.

How will this qualification be assessed?

All units are assessed through a timetabled written examination.

First examination dates

Examinations series are available every June.

First examination available from June 2009

First examination available from June 2010

Ask a question

Do you have a question that is not covered here or in our FAQs section and needs subject specialist knowledge? If so please email 14-19alevels@ocr.org.uk.

OCR is part of the Cambridge Assessment Group

	Approved specification (Classical Civilisation unit CC7; CC8; CC9; CC10 currently under review)	PDF, 321 Kb
	Classics INSET training programme	PDF, 2150 Kb
	Guide to what has changed	PDF, 1108 Kb
	Specimen assessment materials - All units	Zip, 3712 Kb
	Summary of specification	PDF, 120 Kb