Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2022-2023 (archived)

Module THEO3031: ARAMAIC

Department: Theology and Religion

THEO3031: ARAMAIC

Type Open Level 3 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2022/23 Module Cap Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • Biblical Hebrew (THEO 1151) or Syriac (THEO 2061) or another relevant Semitic language

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • To impart a detailed knowledge of Aramaic grammar and syntax, enabling study of texts in this language.
  • To equip students with skills and knowledge ancilliary to other modules which they have taken or are taking.

Content

  • The module will use a standard Aramaic textbook
  • Students will translate texts from a range of representative Aramaic dialects, including significant sections of the biblical texts in Aramaic.
  • Detailed bibliographies and some textual notes will be made available.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • a basic knowledge of Aramaic grammar and syntax.
  • knowledge of the content and context of the set texts.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • The ability to translate and comprehend Aramaic texts.
Key Skills:
  • Generic language 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. In this module, the lectures are oriented to language acquisition.
  • Examinations assess subject-specific knowledge and understanding, along with student skills in the structured presentation of information in written form under time constraints.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 22 2 hours per week 1 hour 44
Preparation and Reading 156
Total 200

Summative Assessment

Component: Examination Component Weighting: 100%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
three-hour unseen written examination 100%

Formative Assessment:

Class work in translation and comment


Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University