Written examinations: Latin option plus compulsory L1, L2 and Mathematics
The written component of the European Baccalaureate Latin pathway tests timed reading, translation and interpretation of Latin, alongside the compulsory papers in L1, L2 and Mathematics that every EB candidate sits. For Latin itself, the written paper is an option examination: it rewards precise grammatical analysis, idiomatic translation and secure command of the set civilisation and literature topics, not merely vocabulary recall.
What the written papers demand
- Latin (option): typically a three-hour paper; a dictionary is permitted. The paper usually has three parts: (1) translation of an unseen Latin passage, prose or verse, into your language section; (2) comprehension and grammar/style questions on that passage; (3) a structured essay on a topic from the S6–S7 programme, such as Roman values, historiography or epic.
- L1: a four-hour paper combining text-based analysis and extended writing. L2: a three-hour paper testing reading comprehension, grammar and written production. Mathematics: a four-hour paper of multi-step problems.
- Marking: external examiners apply agreed grids. Translation is marked for semantic accuracy, grammar and appropriate register; the essay for argument, use of textual evidence and organisation.
Worked example
Take Caesar, cum id nuntiatum esset, maturat ab urbe proficisci.
- Identify the cum clause: cum id nuntiatum esset = “when this had been reported” - pluperfect passive subjunctive, circumstantial.
- Parse the main clause: maturat is a historical present, “he hastens”; proficisci is a complementary infinitive, “to set out”; ab urbe is “from the city”.
- Render idiomatically: “When this had been reported, Caesar hastened to set out from the city.” Reasoning: check case, voice and clause type before choosing English words; preserve the sequence of tenses; never leave cum untranslated.
Traps
- Translating word by word and missing an ablative absolute or subordinate clause.
- Spending too long on one lexical item; dictionary use must be targeted.
- Writing the essay as a narrative rather than arguing from textual evidence.
- Ignoring the required language of response.
- Mismanaging the three hours: leave time to proofread the translation against the Latin.