Page 66 - THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM, GRADES 9–12 | Classical Studies and International Languages

THE ONTARIO CURRICULUM, GRADES 9–12 | Classical Studies and International Languages
C. Writing. Students write a variety of texts in English, including translations of passages in the classical language, summaries, paraphrases, notes about grammar and information from lessons on the ancient world, research outlines, and jot notes for various purposes. In order to consolidate their knowledge and understanding of the vocabulary and grammar of the classical language, students compose phrases, sentences, and brief, simple paragraphs in Latin or ancient Greek. In addition, composition tasks in English extend students’ skills in critical analysis to help them determine the most accurate and effective ways in which to express ideas.
D. Intercultural Understanding. Students apply their knowledge of vocabulary and grammatical concepts in the classical language to extend their understanding of English and other languages. In addition, they apply their critical thinking skills and knowledge of the ancient world, gained through classroom instruction, reading, and research, to evaluate the ways in which the classical language and culture have influenced the development of other languages and cultures. Through their study of a classical language, students build a sophisticated understanding and appreciation of the interconnectedness of peoples through history and around the world.
Language structures and conventions that are appropriate for each level are provided in the Language Knowledge charts for Latin and ancient Greek in the classical studies appendix. Students are expected to consolidate and refine the use of various grammatical elements and concepts as they complete language activities across all four strands.
The Grade 12 Classical Civilization Course
The classical world made profound contributions to civilization in such areas as literature, philosophy, politics, and the arts and architecture, and its influence continues to be felt in the modern world.
In the Classical Civilization course, students explore a wide variety of media and classical works
in translation to develop an understanding and appreciation of the myriad contributions of the classical world to other cultures and societies, including their own, and to make connections to
their own experiences.
The expectations for this course are organized into five distinct but related strands:
A. Critical Thinking and Literacy Skills. The study of classical civilization requires students
to comprehend a large volume of information through both class work and independent research, and to develop their ability to use and cite primary and secondary sources. Students read, summarize, paraphrase, analyse, interpret, and evaluate information from a wide variety of sources in order to explore the legacy of the classical world. Students work independently and collaboratively, selecting and using a variety of media to communicate information and ideas effectively in class discussions, seminars, presentations, research papers, and demonstrations, among other activities. Students make connections between the classical world, the world around them, and their own experiences, building a sophisticated understanding and appreciation of the interconnectedness of peoples through history and around the world.
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