NCEA Level 3 Classical Studies
13CLS Course DescriptionTeacher in Charge: Mrs G. Fernandez.
Recommended Prior Learning10 credits in any Year 12 course or by HOD approval.
Classical Studies is about the ancient Greek and Roman civilizations. It is an exciting course that challenges students and their ways of thinking.
It focuses on:
Famous people who influenced the ideas and values of ancient society and shaped the world we live in.
Classical mythology: stories about gods and heroes, including their purpose and relevance to modern society.
Significant events and their impact on our lives and the lives of ancient people.
Artworks and buildings that reflect the creativity and ingenuity of ancient societies and form the basis for modern art and architecture.
Therefore:
Classical Studies is a suitable subject for students who enjoy variety in their learning. It is engaging and relevant for our students and the global world we live in.
It provides:
- Cultural enrichment
- Understanding of the origins of western civilisation.
It also helps develop skills, including:
- Literacy
- Communication, organization and research
- Critical and creative thinking
Classical Studies therefore enhances personal growth and teaches knowledge and skills that are applicable to a wide range of occupations.
2025 COURSE OUTLINE:
BEAUTY ACROSS THE AGES:
With a focus on Aphrodite/Venus, we investigate how classical art influenced the work of future generations.
ALEXANDER THE GREAT AND HIS POLICY OF FUSION:
How Alexander's intention to fuse the races (Greeks and Persians) brought about a mutiny and the death of some of his closest friends.
ROMAN ART AND ARCHITECTURE:
How Roman Emperors used art and architecture ( eg the Colosseum) to promote themselves and why these buildings continue to inspire and influence modern practices in design, architecture and engineering.
VIRGIL'S AENEID:
This is an epic about love and war, devotion and duty, destiny and personal development.
"Classics is about building knowledge and developing critical thinking, not passing on information" Associate Professor of Classics, Canterbury University
2023 Classical Studies Educational tour to Greece and Italy - Rome - Arch of Titus
Learning Areas:
Assessment Information
INTERNAL ASSESSMENTS:
1) Demonstrate understanding of the lasting influences of the classical world on other cultures across time: Students will carry out research, analyse visual resources and write a report in which they discuss the influence of Greek and Roman artworks on Botticelli's birth of Venus.
2) Demonstrate understanding of Alexander the Great's policy of fusion: Students will use primary and secondary sources to research and write a report in which they draw conclusions about Alexander's policy of fusion.
EXTERNAL Assessments:
Students will have a 3 hour examination to write extended paragraphs on the two Achievement Standards studied during the year (Virgil's Aeneid and Art and Architecture).
They will be provided with 4 questions on each Achievement Standard and will be asked to respond to ONE of these questions.
Costs: Possibly $20-40 for field trip.
Stationery: Ring-binder, refill and clear copysafe pockets.