At Hilden Grange, pupils begin their study of Latin in Year 7. They are taught to understand the value of the subject and the many ways in which it will support their work in other areas. In the early stages, lessons involve learning basic vocabulary and identifying Latin roots in English and in other languages. By means of word games and other practical activities, pupils soon realise how an understanding of Latin will help them with spelling, grammar and vocabulary, and they begin to develop a greater, more critical awareness of language in general. We dispel the notion that Latin is ‘dead’ but is rather an integral part of other languages and that the legacy of the Romans is around us in daily life everywhere.
Translation work, both from and into Latin, forms a rigorous element of language study and pupils thrive on the challenge which reading short stories presents, while at the same time increasing their grammatical and analytical skills. By the time they reach Year 8, many will be able to read Latin texts at a very high level.
In Classics lessons, language study is put into context as we consider the daily life of Ancient Rome and Roman Britain– gladiators, slaves, the Roman baths, the army, houses, schools and the geography of the Roman Empire to name but a few of the topics covered. In addition, pupils enjoy project work on Homer’s Odyssey, the Trojan War and Greek Mythology all of which provide opportunities for creative writing, artwork or even performing short plays and songs.
Latin and Classics remain very much alive at Hilden Grange!
