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GCSE OCR Latin Set Texts Guides: Prose and Verse Literature

An excellent set of translations and textual analysis of the Prose (Unit A403) and Verse (Unit A404) set texts for examination in up to June 2017. Each text is broken down into manageable chunks, translated into English and accompanied by meaningful notes on style, grammar and literary effects. Additionally, for each text: a brief biography of the author, cast list showing key relationships and ideas for further study.

  • The perfect balance between literal, easy-to-follow translations and an eloquent rendering of the original text
  • Overview and biographical notes put the work in context
  • Detailed notes focus on key literary devices
  • Key technical vocab highlighted – glossaries included
  • Practice Exam Questions with mark schemes – fully prepare your students for the exams!


Praise for previous editions:

The resource teaches pupils that translating ancient texts is within their scope. R Millar, Head of Latin & Independent Reviewer
A well organised & clear resource. Well researched and at an appropriate level for GCSE. I particularly liked the way the text was broken up into small manageable sections. It gives the right amount of information about the authors. P Kenney, Classics Teacher at Exeter College and Independent Reviewer
What do teachers have to say about this resource? (Pliny & Livy, 2012/13)
'Easy to access, useful information... Puts it into English they can understand and it has exam practice examples... Have a look – compare it to what you are currently using.' – G Lynch, Head of Classics & Customer
'Amusing, engaging and very helpful...The students can use it to work independently at their own pace. They also have the chance to place the texts in social/political/literary context... They feel confident about their own progress and secure in the knowledge that all aspects are covered.' – CM Roxby, Head of Classics and Happy Customer
'Very easy to read, with a style that should appeal to pupils. There was lots of detail, but not so much that pupils would just bypass the information and get straight to learning the translation. It had a good mix of background facts and literary criticism... Of special note was the explanation of literary terms... I really enjoyed the easy flowing translation. The translators' names were fun, as were the illustrations! The resource teaches pupils that translating ancient texts is within their scope... It also presents the texts as entertaining and still relevant... There was a mix of short factual questions and literary appreciation questions.' – R Millar, Head of Latin & Independent Reviewer
'A really helpful resource... I liked the layout of the translation and the notes. This will save me having to produce this for myself. It's useful for the students to have a printed copy of a translation to refer to and some questions to practice. Perfect fit to A403.' – L Cashmore, Head of Department & Independent Reviewer
What do teachers have to say about this resource? (Prophecies & Portents, 2012/13)
'Excellent! I particularly like this resource because I am a non-specialist and the translation and notes give me confidence in my own interpretation... notes on style and exam questions are great time savers... the translations are accessible without sacrificing too much accuracy... They save you hours of prep time.' – S Boor, private order customer