Cambridge International AS and A Level Classical Studies

Cambridge International AS and A Level Classical Studies provides learners with an understanding of the civilisations of ancient Greece and Rome, and an appreciation of the diversity of the Classical world.

The syllabus exposes learners to a range of original sources (textual, material, archaeological) and develops their abilities to interpret, analyse and evaluate a range of evidence. The syllabus is flexible and wide-ranging, allowing teachers to build a course that reflects their learners' interests and staff specialisms.

Aims of the Syllabus

Classical Studies provides opportunity:
• To provide students with an understanding of Greek and Roman civilisation, and to encourage an appreciation for the Classical world
• To understand core foundations for the Western traditions of art, history, literature, philosophy, political thought and science – traditions which have had major influences on the shape of the modern world
• To develop awareness of diversity in civilisations by understanding cultures, their values and assumptions, which differ from ours
• To develop students’ abilities to interpret, analyse and evaluate a range of evidence, and to organise and present information in a coherent and effective manner
• To encourage students to develop as effective and independent learners, and as critical and reflective thinkers.

Syllabus

Paper 1 Greek Civilisation
• Alexander the Great
• Socrates
• Aristophanes
• Greek Vase Painting

Paper 2 Roman Civilisation
• Augustus
• Virgil
• Juvenal
• Roman Architecture

Paper 3 Classical History: Sources and Evidence
• The Changing World of Athens: its friends and enemies
• The Roman Empire: civilisation or submission?

Paper 4 Classical Literature: Sources and Evidence
• Drama: the idea of tragedy
• Gods and Heroes: the importance of epic

There are no limits to the number of options that may be studied.

Objectives of Assessment

1. Knowledge with Understanding
Demonstrate relevant knowledge and critical understanding (including critical appreciation of the contexts from which people, events, ideas and/or artefacts emerged and were valued within Classical cultures) by presenting well-informed, effective answers.

2. Analysis, Evaluation and Judgement
Interpret, analyse and evaluate critically a range of appropriate evidence (historical, literary, material) in context to draw substantiated judgements.

Assessment

AS Level

Paper 1 Greek Civilisation
Written paper externally set and marked
1½ hours
Weighting- 50

Paper 2 Roman Civilisation
Written paper externally set and marked
1½ hours
Weighting- 50

A Level

Paper 1 Greek Civilisation
Written paper externally set and marked
1½ hours
Weighting- 25

Paper 2 Roman Civilisation
Written paper externally set and marked
1½ hours
Weighting- 25

Paper 3 Classical History: Sources and evidence
Written paper externally set and marked
1½ hours
Weighting- 25

Paper 4 Classical Literature: Sources and evidence
Written paper externally set and marked
1½ hours
Weighting- 25

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