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Is self-studying a level Latin feasible/worth it?

For context I already bio, chem, maths, fm and am managing ok so far. I wanted to switch from chem to Latin but missed the deadline to change. I really enjoyed it at GCSE and got a 9, and honestly I just miss doing it.

Languages come to me quite easily so I don't think the language and vocab parts will be too big of a hassle. I had a look at the literature for AS and it didn't look that much longer than GCSE.

I don't know how well analysing the texts by myself would go, because my Latin teacher was just amazing with this last year and made spotting techniques way easier, as well as learning how to do extended response questions. However, I'm still at the same school I was at last year, so I can probably ask her for help/resources.

I figured that doing AS over 2 years would make for a lighter workload, but I'm still not sure if it would leave me enough time for supercurriculars and work experience. Do you think it's worth doing/me asking my Latin teacher if she can help? Also, does anyone know any resources if they're self-studying as well?
Original post by truthful-pottery
For context I already bio, chem, maths, fm and am managing ok so far. I wanted to switch from chem to Latin but missed the deadline to change. I really enjoyed it at GCSE and got a 9, and honestly I just miss doing it.
Languages come to me quite easily so I don't think the language and vocab parts will be too big of a hassle. I had a look at the literature for AS and it didn't look that much longer than GCSE.
I don't know how well analysing the texts by myself would go, because my Latin teacher was just amazing with this last year and made spotting techniques way easier, as well as learning how to do extended response questions. However, I'm still at the same school I was at last year, so I can probably ask her for help/resources.
I figured that doing AS over 2 years would make for a lighter workload, but I'm still not sure if it would leave me enough time for supercurriculars and work experience. Do you think it's worth doing/me asking my Latin teacher if she can help? Also, does anyone know any resources if they're self-studying as well?

Honestly, no. I know you’re doing ok so far but committing to 5 a-levels would be a huge mistake. It will not make unis look favourably on you at all. I completely understand where your coming from, but a) it will not be a useful qualification with what you’re already doing and b) you’ll put to much pressure on yourself. If you are passionate about studying it you could start a latin club and use that on your personal statement, you can read and enjoy the texts without having to enjoy them. You can ‘self-study’ without that additional pressure and dedicate yourself to the four you already do, also don’t forget the difference between A-level and GCSEs - especially for an A-level as infamous as Latin compared to the relatively easy GCSE - I wouldn’t be lulled into confidence because of your GSCE. Sorry this all sounded a bit critical, I love Latin and it’s great you want to take it, but you’ll regret it. :smile:
Original post by truthful-pottery
For context I already bio, chem, maths, fm and am managing ok so far. I wanted to switch from chem to Latin but missed the deadline to change. I really enjoyed it at GCSE and got a 9, and honestly I just miss doing it.

Languages come to me quite easily so I don't think the language and vocab parts will be too big of a hassle. I had a look at the literature for AS and it didn't look that much longer than GCSE.

I don't know how well analysing the texts by myself would go, because my Latin teacher was just amazing with this last year and made spotting techniques way easier, as well as learning how to do extended response questions. However, I'm still at the same school I was at last year, so I can probably ask her for help/resources.

I figured that doing AS over 2 years would make for a lighter workload, but I'm still not sure if it would leave me enough time for supercurriculars and work experience. Do you think it's worth doing/me asking my Latin teacher if she can help? Also, does anyone know any resources if they're self-studying as well?

I think you need to start with the basic question of, why would you be taking A-level Latin - what would you be aiming to do with it? This is not to discourage you (I myself study ancient languages and definitely would encourage it!) but to understand what you hope to get out of the course and whether doing a formal qualification is the only way to achieve that goal. As you may find that just exploring Latin outside the confines of the A-level syllabus, for example setting up a Latin club/reading group at your school and self studying in a less structured way with peers could suit your aims without potentially jeopardising your academics otherwise.
(edited 3 months ago)

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