Classics
‘Classics’ is the study of the language, literature, history and culture of the ancient Greek and Roman worlds.
The Classics Department in the Academy has a long and proud tradition, dating back to the foundation of the school in 1785, and is one of the few remaining such departments in Northern Ireland’s grammar schools.
CURRICULUM
Our core subject is LATIN which is taught from Form 1 upwards to GCSE, AS and A2 levels.
CLASSICAL CIVILISATION is the study of the Classical Greek and Roman cultures through the medium of ancient texts in translation. The subject is offered at AS and A2 levels.
The study of Latin has many benefits for pupils:
- it enhances their command of language by requiring them to pay close attention to the relationships between concepts and the words and structures used to express them
- it increases their understanding of English and of language in general
The study of Latin and Classical Civilisation has many benefits for pupils:
- they develop their powers of observation, abstraction and analysis of information, judgement and communication
- they develop tolerant but not uncritical attitudes towards customs and practices unlike their own
- they develop a European awareness through an understanding of their culture and linguistic heritage
- they develop an open and sympathetic attitude towards the past and the unfamiliar
- they develop a critical and reflective understanding of the world in which they live
- they kindle their imagination through contact with the Classical world and stimulate a personal response
- they introduce them to significant aspects of the historical, political and philosophical thought of the Classical period
- they introduce them to a selection of the major achievements of the Romans (and Greeks) in such fields as literature, art, architecture, science, medicine, technology and law
CLASSICAL GREEK is taught on a voluntary basis outside the timetable to interested pupils in Forms 3 to Middle 6 at all levels, from a basic introduction up to GCE A2 level.
In Forms 1, 2 and 3 Latin we follow the Cambridge Latin Course. At GCSE, AS and A2 levels we follow the courses set by OCR Examinations.
AFTER A2 LEVEL
Many of our pupils who pursue Latin/Greek and/or Classical Civilisation to A2 level take up related courses at university ranging from full Classics to Ancient History, Classical Civilisation and Archaeology.
School News
SPRING CONCERT
23rd Mar 2010
Ulster Hall - 23rd March - 7.30pm
THE ACADEMY THROUGH TO SCHOOLS’ CUP FINAL
17th Mar 2010
16 - 12 win against Wallace High School
NEWS FROM THE SWIMMING POOL
11th Mar 2010
Water Polo, Inter-house Gala & Lifesaving
HOCKEY NEWS
10th Mar 2010
Shield semi-final win & selections for U15 Area Board Tournament