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THEO2061: SYRIAC

Please ensure you check the module availability box for each module outline, as not all modules will run in each academic year. Each module description relates to the year indicated in the module availability box, and this may change from year to year, due to, for example: changing staff expertise, disciplinary developments, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback. Current modules are subject to change in light of the ongoing disruption caused by Covid-19.

Type Open
Level 2
Credits 20
Availability Not available in 2024/2025
Module Cap None.
Location Durham
Department Theology and Religion

Prerequisites

  • Biblical Hebrew (THEO1151) OR Greek (Biblical and Classical).

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combinations of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • To introduce students to the elements of Syriac.
  • To equip students with skills and knowledge for further study of Aramaic at level 3.
  • To equip students with skills and knowledge ancillary to other modules which they are taking or will take.

Content

  • The course will use a standard Syriac textbook.
  • Regular written tests will determine the speed and effectiveness with which the students are acquiring knowledge of the language.
  • The students will read different biblical and non-biblical texts.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:

  • Working knowledge of Syriac grammar, syntax, and core vocabulary.
  • Competence in the reading of simple and intermediate Syriac texts.

Subject-specific Skills:

  • The ability to identify grammatical forms.
  • The ability to translate Syriac texts.

Key Skills:

  • Generic linguistic skills.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Lectures convey information and exemplify an approach to the subject-matter, enabling students to develop a clear understanding of the subject and to improve their skills in listening and in evaluating information.
  • Collections and language tests permit staff and students to assess progress in learning of the language, and to identify areas for remedial work.
  • Examinations assess subject-specific knowledge and understanding, and in this module especially assess subject skills.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

ActivityNumberFrequencyDurationTotalMonitored
Lectures20One per week 1 hour20 
Preparation and Reading180 
Total200 

Summative Assessment

Component: ExaminationComponent Weighting: 100%
ElementLength / DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
Unseen Examination2 hours100 

Formative Assessment

Regular tests on grammar and syntax.

More information

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