Module THEO1151: BIBLICAL HEBREW

Department: Theology and Religion

THEO1151: BIBLICAL HEBREW

Prerequisites

• None.

Corequisites

• None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

• None.

Aims

• To introduce students to the elements of Classical Hebrew and the early history of the Hebrew Bible.
• To equip students with skills and knowledge for further study of Hebrew at level 2.
• To equip students with skills and knowledge ancilliary to other modules which they are taking or will take.

Content

• Students are taught using Weingreen's grammar of Classical Hebrew in classes taught twice a week. They will be expected to learn vocabulary and grammar in a traditional way, at a pace which the majority of students find comfortable. By building up a strong vocabulary and grammar base, students will soon feel confident with that language and begin study of a biblical prose text in the Epiphany term. They will further engage with textual and linguistic issues in selected passages of Hebrew prose, and encounter both the text-critical issues posed by other versions of the Bible and Rabbinic interpretations of selected texts.

Learning Outcomes

• Basic knowledge of biblical Hebrew grammar, syntax, and core vocabulary.
• Competence in the reading of simple biblical Hebrew prose.
• An introductory knowledge of biblical text-criticism.

• The ability to identify grammatical forms.
• The ability to translate simple Hebrew texts.

• 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.
• 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

Summative Assessment

Formative Assessment:

1 3hr collection at the start of Epiphany Term. Tests of an informal character fortnightly.

■ 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