OCR GCSE Latin
Explore your course, one topic at a time.
Course overview
The OCR GCSE Latin specification covers 8 topics with 73 learning objectives (J282). Use the topic browser below to explore subtopics, exam tips, common mistakes, and key terminology for each area of the course.
- 8 topics
- 73 learning objectives
- 8
- topics
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Your exams
- LanguageTuesday, 11 May 2027, PM
- Prose literature ATuesday, 18 May 2027, PM
- Prose literature BTuesday, 18 May 2027, PM
- Verse literature AMonday, 7 June 2027, PM
- Verse literature BMonday, 7 June 2027, PM
- Literature and cultureFriday, 11 June 2027, PM
Always confirm dates and times with your exam centre.
Explore your topics
8 topics
Language3 topics
Language skills
Component 01: Language (J282/01) - Skills13 specification points covering recognise, analyse and/or deploy, as appropriate, the accidence and syntax listed in Appendix 5d and 5e, demonstrate…13 objectivesLatin accidence
Component 01: Latin Accidence and Syntax - Accidence6 specification points covering The forms of regular nouns of all declensions, The forms of regular and deponent verbs in all moods, voices and tenses,…6 objectivesLatin syntax
Component 01: Latin Accidence and Syntax - Syntax22 specification points covering Standard uses of the cases, Expressions of time, Comparison (including the ablative of comparison) and related ideas.22 objectives
Prose and Verse Literature1 topic
Literature and Culture4 topics
Literature and culture skills
Component 06: Literature and Culture (J282/06) - Skills10 specification points covering use a range of ancient sources including literary, inscriptional and archaeological, identify aspects of content, culture,…10 objectivesThe Romans in Britain
Component 06: Literature and Culture - The Romans in Britain4 specification points covering Roman Army: Camp layout, life in camp including training., Roman Roads: Construction, principal routes across Britain.,…4 objectivesEntertainment
Component 06: Literature and Culture - Entertainment4 specification points covering The Amphitheatre: In Pompeii, the Colosseum, types of Gladiators., The Theatre at Pompeii: Scenery and props, actors,…4 objectivesMyths and Beliefs
Component 06: Literature and Culture - Myths and Beliefs4 specification points covering Roman Gods: Jupiter, Juno, Mars, Venus, Neptune, Minerva, Apollo, Diana, Vulcan, Vesta, Pluto, Mercury and their roles.,…4 objectives
About this course
About OCR GCSE Latin
The OCR GCSE Latin qualification offers a comprehensive introduction to the Latin language, Roman culture, and classical literature. It is designed for students who wish to develop their understanding of Latin grammar and vocabulary, as well as their ability to read and analyze original Latin texts. The course covers a range of topics from Roman daily life to mythology, providing a rich cultural context for language learning.
Students develop critical thinking, analytical, and translation skills that are highly valued by employers in fields such as law, medicine, history, and linguistics. The study of Latin enhances attention to detail, logical reasoning, and cultural awareness, making it a strong addition to any academic profile.
This qualification prepares students for further study in classics, ancient history, or modern languages at A-Level and beyond. It also opens pathways to careers in archaeology, education, museum curation, and other humanities disciplines.
Assessment Structure
The OCR GCSE Latin qualification is assessed through three components: Language (50% of total marks), Prose Literature (25%), and Verse Literature (25%). The Language component consists of two written papers: one on comprehension and translation (J282/01) and one on prose composition or comprehension (J282/02). The Literature components each involve a written paper with questions on prescribed texts, including translation, comprehension, and literary analysis. There is no coursework; all assessments are external examinations taken at the end of the course.
Why Choose OCR?
- OCR offers a clear and structured syllabus with a focus on both language and literature, allowing students to develop a balanced skill set.
- The prescribed texts are carefully selected to be engaging and accessible, with support materials and past papers readily available.
- OCR's assessment model rewards accurate translation and analytical skills, with clear mark schemes that help students understand how to achieve top marks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have studied Latin before taking this GCSE?
How much vocabulary do I need to learn?
Assessment and exam guidance
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 or select
Account of process or features
Give reasons with BUSINESS-FACING outcomes
Examine methodically showing cause→effect→outcome
Judge, weigh up evidence, reach SYNOPTIC conclusion
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