Newcastle University

Pre Requisite Comment

A-level Latin or equivalent (note that advice on the appropriate level is given in induction week on the basis of a diagnostic test), or CLA1001 and 1002 (or equivalent)

Co Requisite Comment

N/A

Aims

This module, with its natural sequel CLA1012 in Semester 2, may be taken by students with suitable prior qualifications in Latin, such as A-levels; they are also the natural continuation of the Beginners’ modules (CLA1001 and CLA1002).

Both modules comprise a language and a literature component; the two elements are inseparable and reinforce each other. In the language parts, the aim is to develop and consolidate knowledge of Latin grammar, vocabulary and style, and to provide linguistic support for work on Latin literature. In the literature part, the aim is to train students in the detailed study of a Latin prose or verse text, applying the knowledge of the language which they have acquired or are acquiring, and to allow them to gain a thorough understanding of the texts studied.

This module can either be taken independently or together with CLA1012; the latter may normally only be taken following successful completion of this module.

The overall aims of this module are:
• to develop and consolidate knowledge of Latin grammar, vocabulary and style
• to train students in the detailed study of a Latin prose or verse text, at the level appropriate to the “post-beginners”/”post-A-level” knowledge of the language which they have acquired or are acquiring

The aims of the taught 'in Action' component and its related assessment are:
1. to help students to solidify and extend their working knowledge of basic vocabulary and its usage;
2. to give students an opportunity to put their developing knowledge of key grammatical patterns and syntactical structures into practice;
3. to help students to develop their ability to analyse and appreciate the effects of different modes of expression in the language, including differences of meaning and style, without the aid of a published translation;
4. to train students in the application of language skills to literary analysis, and in critical reading of texts in the original language;
5. to assist students in developing and applying increasingly nuanced translation strategies based on the foregoing skills; and
6. to enhance students' ability to read classical literature more meaningfully by applying all these skills to unfamiliar texts in the original language.
Several methods are used in supporting these aims, as appropriate to the level, the readings, and the specific grammatical elements being learned. ‘In Action’ class exercises and assessed assignments are usually based on the close study of one or more short passages of text in the original language. Methods may include translation of passages into English; translation from English into Latin/Greek; comparison of published translations; stylistic analysis; scansion of passages of verse; memorisation of short excerpts; recitation.

Outline Of Syllabus

Of the 4 hours a week, two will be devoted to language and grammar; one to a “Latin in Action” component (analysing texts, developing the approach used in CLA1001-1002); and one to reading passages from Vergil’s Aeneid in the original.

Intended Knowledge Outcomes

- consolidated knowledge of all the essentials of Latin grammar
- developed vocabulary
- awareness of stylistic features of some Latin texts
- a basic knowledge of the outline of Vergil’s Aeneid, and of the particular book of that work studied

Intended Skill Outcomes

- enhanced ability to study and analyse Latin texts in the original
- enhanced skills of textual and literary analysis

Teaching Rationale And Relationship

Language classes (as described above) are the best way to combine the imparting of (grammatical and other) knowledge with the hands-on training in linguistic and literary skills

Assessment Rationale And Relationship

Exam tests knowledge of grammar and vocabulary, and of the text studied; and skills of translation.
Coursework tests all skills specified above, as well as knowledge of grammar and style.

Submitted work tests intended knowledge and skills outcomes, develops key skills in research, reading and writing.

This module cannot be made available to Study-abroad, non-Erasmus exchange and Loyola students under any circumstances.

General Notes

N/A