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Classical Civilisation

Submitted by admin on 14 December 2011 - 3.45am
Course Overview

Type of Course and Awarding Body 

A Level - AQA

AS and A2

Level 

Level Three

What's it all about? 

This subject takes an in-depth look at Greek and Roman cultures - otherwise known as the 'classical' period of history.  This is the point in time when civilisation as we know it was born.

Classical civilisation aims to be both a serious study of history and literature, and an enjoyment of the culture and politics of the classical world - and how they link to life today. This A level is often studied by people looking for a career in the arts, sociology or politics but is equally relevant to historians and archaeologists. Classical civilisation is a well-regarded A level with most universities, and many of our top politicians studied the classics.

This is a flexible A level so you'll be able to choose the modules that are of most interest to you in years one and two. You'll examine literature such as Homer's Odyssey and plays by the masters of Greek tragedy, and see how they fit within today's social context. Your study will be brought to life through film, audio and live performance.  There will be trips to classical sites both at home and abroad, for example the Roman Baths in Bath and possibly Rome or Athens.

Progression 

An A Level in Classical Civilisation is useful for students wishing to pursue a wide range of careers. It attracts UCAS points for those wishing to enter higher education, and is highly rated by the top universities.

Entry Requirements 

In our experience in order to be successful on this level of programme you will need one of the following:

  • four to five* GCSEs at grades A*-C (including English and maths)
  • an intermediate GNVQ in a related subject
  • a BTEC first diploma in a related subject
  • an NVQ level 2/technical certificate in a related subject
  • successful completion of an apprenticeship programme
  • successful completion of the Gateway/Newstart programme
  • equivalent qualifications or relevant work experience.

* A level candidates will be expected to have five GCSEs

Last, but not least - you will benefit from having an interest in the classical period, and be prepared to develop new skills such as analysis and evaluation of primary classical sources and secondary sources, and the ability to write a developed essay. The ability to read and write well is integral to the study of classical civilisation.

Duration 

One year

Are there any exams? 

AS - Two, one-hour 30 minutes written exams.
A2 - Two, one-hour 30 minutes written exams.

Course Content

What does the course involve? 

The AS year comprises two units:

Unit 1 The Life and Times of Cicero (80-43BC).

The study of the main events of the life of one of Rome's most famous statesmen and writers, using his letters as a primary classical source, and setting his life in the context of Roman society, government and politics during the collapse of the Roman Republic, a major turning point in western civilisation.

Unit 2: Greek Literature - Homer's Odyssey.

You will read, understand and analyse sections of the Odyssey, one of the greatest works of Greek literature, including plot, characterisation, oral composition, narrative and descriptive techniques and themes.

The A2 year comprises two units:

Unit 3: Greek Tragedy.

A study of four Greek Tragedies, two Sophocles, two Euripides. The plays will be studied through their cultural, religious, mythical and political contexts.

Unit 4 Tiberius and Claudius.

An in depth study of two of the Julio - Claudian emperors who ruled Rome at the beginning of the Common Era (AD 14 - 37; AD 41 - 54), using primary sound material (Tacctus and Suetonius).

When can I study? 

Various days and times
Course Facts

September

Full-time

Goschen Centre

Please contact info@cityplym.ac.uk or phone reception on 01752 305300 for details

Advanced

ASFT


Certain "part-time" courses may become "full-time" courses if additional courses are taken.

If you are aged 16-18, due to Government funding, tuition fees may not be applicable for your course (Please note: this does not apply to foundation degrees or access to higher education courses, and other courses not eligible for public funding).

Please note that fees quoted apply to courses starting in the academic year 2011 / 12 (August 2011 - July 2012). There may be a slight increase in fees for courses starting 2012 / 13.

September

Part-time

Kings Road Centre

Please contact info@cityplym.ac.uk or phone reception on 01752 305300 for details

Please contact info@cityplym.ac.uk or phone reception on 01752 305300 for details.

Please contact info@cityplym.ac.uk or phone reception on 01752 305300 for details

Advanced

ASPT


Certain "part-time" courses may become "full-time" courses if additional courses are taken.

If you are aged 16-18, due to Government funding, tuition fees may not be applicable for your course (Please note: this does not apply to foundation degrees or access to higher education courses, and other courses not eligible for public funding).

Please note that fees quoted apply to courses starting in the academic year 2011 / 12 (August 2011 - July 2012). There may be a slight increase in fees for courses starting 2012 / 13.

Click here to request an application form be sent to you through the post or download a printable copy.

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