Classics

Classics is a single specialist teacher department.  Latin is offered as an option from Third to Sixth Year and Classical Studies as a ‘crash' Higher in Sixth Year.  Visits are also paid to Junior School classes studying the Ancient World.  The department has one small but attractive classroom with rich academic resources.  Active learning is encouraged at all levels.

Classics: Staffing

Mrs Alexis Jennings (Head of Department)

Mrs Jennings completed her MA at Aberdeen University and her MEd at Stirling.  Before joining Heriot's twelve years ago, she had been Principal Teacher of Classics in Stirling for twenty years.  She is a highly experienced SQA setter and marker and is Principal Assessor for Advanced Higher Latin.  Mrs Jennings has an exuberant and imaginative teaching style which she carries over into her popular P7 and S1 Classics Clubs.

Classics: Curriculum

S3

S3 Latin focuses mostly on language work, gradually introducing grammar and syntax until real authors can be read for both Translation and Interpretation.  The third skill, Investigation, is developed by weekly presentations of possible topic choices and practical research requiring evaluation of primary and secondary sources.

S4

In S4 Standard Grade, grammar and syntax are consolidated using customised Translation practice-packs.  Interpretation centres on Gellius, Seneca, Augustine, Catullus, Martial and Ovid, as prescribed by SQA. The Investigation is finalised and marked externally.

S5

Higher pupils practise translation of the colourful speeches of the lawyer Cicero.  For Interpretation, pupils read in depth a section of Cicero's "In Verrem" and part of Book VI of Virgil's "Aeneid ". Small classes facilitate tutorial-style learning experiences.

S6

Advanced Higher Latin students analyse and respond to the Love-Poetry of Catullus, Propertius, Tibullus, Horace and Ovid.  Translation focuses on Livy and Virgil.  A scholarly Dissertation on any appropriate Roman theme is meticulously researched.  Although teacher support is always available, there is great encouragement to develop solo-study techniques.

‘Crash' Higher Classical Studies is attractive to those who seek the stimulation of ‘fresh' cultural awareness without foreign language work.  Pupils are encouraged to develop skills of critical analysis, probing written and archaeological evidence relating to Greek and Roman religion.  Contemporary social issues are put in perspective by interactive study of ancient dilemmas in Greek drama. Teaching is tutorial-style with vigorous debate and discussion.