What should I focus on for WJEC A-Level Classical Civilisation?

Always support arguments with close reference to the text, using book and line numbers.

What should I focus on for WJEC A-Level Classical Civilisation? (2)

In essay questions, plan to address both thematic and literary aspects to demonstrate holistic understanding.

What should I focus on for WJEC A-Level Classical Civilisation? (3)

Engage with different scholarly interpretations to show critical thinking.

What are common mistakes in WJEC A-Level Classical Civilisation?

Confusing the chronological order of events with the narrative order.

What are common mistakes in WJEC A-Level Classical Civilisation? (2)

Failing to distinguish between ancient Greek concepts like xenia and modern hospitality.

What are common mistakes in WJEC A-Level Classical Civilisation? (3)

Overlooking the significance of minor characters and their thematic roles.

Classical Civilisation

WJEC

A-Level

Specification: WJEC-A-Level-Classical-Civilisation

This subject will help you develop key knowledge and skills required for exam success.

Topics

Objectives

Exam Tips

Pitfalls

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Key Features

Master key concepts
Develop exam technique
Apply knowledge effectively

Assessment Objectives

AO1

50%-55%

Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of: • literature and either visual/material culture or classical thought • how sources and ideas reflect, and influence, their cultural contexts • possible interpretations of sources, perspectives and ideas by different audiences and individuals

AO2

50%-55%

Critically analyse, interpret and evaluate literature, and either visual/material culture or classical thought, using evidence to make substantiated judgements and produce coherent and reasoned arguments

What Gets Top Grades

A*/Grade 9

Knowledge & Understanding

Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge

Uses correct subject-specific terminology
Shows detailed understanding of concepts
Makes accurate connections between topics
Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge

Application

Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts

Selects relevant knowledge for the question
Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
Uses examples appropriately
Shows awareness of context

Analysis & Evaluation

Develops sophisticated analytical arguments

Constructs logical chains of reasoning
Considers multiple perspectives
Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
Acknowledges limitations and nuances

Key Command Words

WJEC

State

1 mark

Give a single fact or term

Identify

1 mark

Name, select, or recognise

Outline

2 marks

Set out main features briefly

Describe

2-4 marks

Give an account of what something is like or what happens

Explain

3-6 marks

Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains

Compare

2-4 marks

State similarities AND differences (both required)

Analyse

6-9 marks

Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains

Evaluate

6-12 marks

Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion

Assess

6-12 marks

Make judgments about importance with justification

Calculate

2-4 marks

Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units

Common Exam Mistakes

Pitfalls to avoid in your exams

•Confusing the chronological order of events with the narrative order.
•Failing to distinguish between ancient Greek concepts like xenia and modern hospitality.
•Overlooking the significance of minor characters and their thematic roles.

Top Examiner Tips

Expert advice for exam success

•Always support arguments with close reference to the text, using book and line numbers.
•In essay questions, plan to address both thematic and literary aspects to demonstrate holistic understanding.
•Engage with different scholarly interpretations to show critical thinking.

Specification Topics

1 topics

E2E stub topic

This subtopic explores the literary techniques, narrative structure, and thematic depth of Homer's Odyssey, focusing on its role as a foundational epic of Western literature. Students will analyse characterisation, divine intervention, and moral values, while evaluating the cultural and historical context of the archaic Greek world. This unit aims to develop critical skills in understanding epic poetry and its enduring influence.

E2E stub subtopic

0 objectives3 tips3 pitfalls

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