Classical Civilisation
Specification: AQA-GCSE-Classical-Civilisation
This subject will help you develop key knowledge and skills required for exam success.
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Topics
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Objectives
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Exam Tips
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Key Features
- Master key concepts
- Develop exam technique
- Apply knowledge effectively
About AQA GCSE Classical Civilisation
The AQA GCSE Classical Civilisation course offers students an engaging introduction to the literature, culture, and thought of ancient Greece and Rome. Through a blend of thematic and literary studies, learners explore the myths, religious practices, and societal structures that shaped the classical world. The specification is designed to develop skills in analysis, evaluation, and comparison of ancient sources, including art, architecture, and texts in translation, fostering a deep appreciation of how classical ideas continue to influence modern society.
Central to the course is the compulsory thematic study, Myth and Religion, which examines the roles of gods, myths, and rituals in Greek and Roman life. Students also select one additional thematic study from options such as Women in the Ancient World or The Homeric World, allowing for specialisation in areas of personal interest. The literature and culture component further enriches the curriculum, with choices including the study of epic poetry like Homer’s Odyssey or Virgil’s Aeneid, alongside cultural topics such as Roman City Life or Pompeii and Herculaneum.
The specification emphasises the use of both visual and material evidence alongside literary sources, enabling students to construct well-rounded interpretations of the ancient world. No prior knowledge of Latin or Greek is required, as all texts are studied in English translation. This accessible yet rigorous course equips learners with critical thinking and communication skills that are highly valued in further education and employment.
Assessment Structure
The qualification is assessed through two written examination papers, each worth 50% of the total marks and lasting 1 hour 45 minutes. Paper 1: Thematic Study includes the compulsory topic Myth and Religion and one other thematic study chosen from a prescribed list, with a total of 90 marks. Paper 2: Literature and Culture assesses one literary option and one cultural option, also for 90 marks. There is no coursework or controlled assessment component.
Why Choose AQA?
- AQA’s clear and well-structured specification makes it straightforward for teachers to deliver and for students to navigate, with a balanced split between thematic studies and literature and culture topics. The compulsory Myth and Religion unit provides a solid foundation in classical belief systems, while the range of options allows teachers to tailor the course to their students’ interests and strengths.
- As one of the largest awarding bodies in the UK, AQA provides extensive support materials, including specimen papers, mark schemes, and endorsed textbooks, ensuring students and teachers have access to high-quality resources. This support network can reduce exam anxiety and help candidates prepare effectively.
- AQA’s assessment approach rewards critical engagement with sources and the ability to construct coherent arguments, rather than rote learning of facts. This equips students with transferable skills in analysis and evaluation that are beneficial across many subjects and future careers.
Frequently Asked Questions
Assessment Objectives
Demonstrate knowledge and understanding of: • literature and visual/material culture from the classical world • how sources reflect their cultural contexts • possible interpretations of sources by different audiences and individuals
Analyse, interpret and evaluate literature and visual/material culture from the classical world, using evidence and producing coherent and reasoned arguments
What Gets Top Grades
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
Give a single fact or term
Name, select, or recognise
Set out main features briefly
Give an account of what something is like or what happens
Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains
State similarities AND differences (both required)
Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains
Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion
Make judgments about importance with justification
Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units
Specification Topics
No curriculum content available for this specification yet.
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