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THEO2651: Biblical Hebrew

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Type Open
Level 2
Credits 20
Availability Available in 2024/2025
Module Cap None.
Location Durham
Department Theology and Religion

Prerequisites

  • None

Corequisites

  • None

Excluded Combinations of Modules

  • None

Aims

  • To introduce students to the elements of biblical Hebrew.
  • To equip students with skills and knowledge for further study of Hebrew.
  • To equip students with skills and knowledge ancillary to other modules which they are taking or will take.

Content

  • Students are taught using a standard grammar of biblical Hebrew in order to build an introductory knowledge of the languages vocabulary and grammar. By the second half of the module, they will translate longer prose passages virtually every week.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:

  • Basic knowledge of biblical Hebrew grammar, syntax, and core vocabulary.
  • Competence in the reading of biblical Hebrew prose.

Subject-specific Skills:

  • The ability to identify grammatical forms.
  • The ability to translate simple Hebrew 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.
  • Through small-group discussion, tutorials provide feedback on student work and the opportunity to discuss specific issues in detail, enhancing student knowledge of the language.
  • Formative 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.
  • Translational exercises allow students to demonstrate and explain the grammatical skills they are developing.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

ActivityNumberFrequencyDurationTotalMonitored
Lectures603 per week for the first two terms1 hour60Yes
Preparation and Reading140 
Total200 

Summative Assessment

Component: Translational ExerciseComponent Weighting: 30%
ElementLength / DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
Translational Exercise 100 
Component: ExaminationComponent Weighting: 70%
ElementLength / DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
Unseen Written Examination2 hours100 

Formative Assessment

Tests of an informal character, as well as weekly grammar and translation sessions.

More information

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