Classical languages SL/HL

Classical Language SL/HL

The DP classical languages course provides an opportunity for students to explore the languages, literature and cultures of ancient Greece or Rome. The study of classical languages gives important insights into the cultures that produced them, and leads to a greater understanding of contemporary languages, literature and cultures. Fundamentally, the study of classical languages trains the mind, developing skills of critical thought, memory and close analysis, as well as an appreciation of the beauty and power of language.

It is a fundamental principle that the texts be studied in their original language. Linguistic skills lie at the heart of the course, since it is through a deep understanding of the workings of a language that true intellectual contact can be made with the peoples of the past. Students learn to translate Latin or Classical Greek works accurately and sensitively. Students also study different genres of classical texts, examining the ideas in these works and their artistry within their historical, political and cultural contexts. Teachers explicitly teach thinking and research skills such as comprehension, text analysis, transfer, and use of primary sources.

The IB DP Classical Language SL course consists of three parts (Duration 150 hours). The assessment model consists of two papers. Paper 1 is of 1.25 hours duration and weighs 35% of the final grade. Paper 2 is of 1.5 hours duration and weighs 45% of the final grade. The internal assessment weighs 20% of the final grade.

The IB DP Classical Language HL course consists of three parts (Duration 240 hours). The assessment model consists of two papers. Paper 1 is of 1.5 hours duration and weighs 35% of the final grade. Paper 2 is of two hours duration and weighs 45% of the final grade. The internal assessment weighs 20% of the final grade.