Classics 

What is Classics?
Classical Civilisation and Ancient History are extremely diverse and interesting subjects at G.C.S.E., A-level and Degree. Not only do they allow students to inquire into the way that Ancient Civilisations established institutions, but they also allow us to investigate methods of historiographical research and the way in which archaeology can help unearth the past.

Usefulness
A Classical education is useful for careers in law, politics, journalism, strategic studies, education and further research in archaeology, ancient history and classics. Classics can help develop a student’s understanding about the emergence of politics, as well as how through trade and colonisation, the ancients developed an interest in economics, social interaction and warfare. It can also help us appreciate the origins of art, architecture, the sciences, sport, religion, philosophy, tragedy, comedy and many other topics.

Classical Civilisation Full Course 4 Topics:
1. City Life – Athens: is concerned with the importance in the lives of the Greek citizen of the gods/heroes, worship, festivals, the oikos (household) and education.
2. Homer: episodes from the adventures of Odysseus in Homer’s The Odyssey (Books 5, 6, 7, 9, 10 and 12 in translation).
3. Sparta and the Spartan System: is concerned with the unique social organisation and Spartan attitude to non-Spartans (education, warfare, government and culture).
4. Controlled Task options: Greek Comedy: a study of humour and audience expectation in Aristophanes’ play Lysistrata (in translation); Roman Britain: The Roman army, Villas, Boudicca,  and Hadrian’s Wall.

Ancient History (short course) 2 Topics:
1. Alexander the Great: His upbringing; the war against Persia, campaigns, battles and historians.
2. Controlled Task: either - i) Ancient Egypt (3000 – 1000 BC) or ii) The Minoans (2000 – 1400BC) or iii) The Mycenaeans (1400-1100BC).
Skills
A study of Classical Civilisation will help a student develop many important skills: from problem solving to the appreciation of aesthetics; a clear and accurate writing style, historical criticism and discussion will benefit those who hope to progress through to A-level. Lunchtime courses will also be available for those students who might like try some Classical Greek or Latin (this is not compulsory, but useful).

Pattern of G.C.S.E. Assessment
Classical civilisation: Candidates are assessed on 3 public exam topics (each worth 25%) and 1 controlled task (25%) marked internally.
Ancient History:
1 public exam (50%) 1 controlled task (50%) marked internally.