Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2022-2023 (archived)

Module THEO1011: OLD TESTAMENT

Department: Theology and Religion

THEO1011: OLD TESTAMENT

Type Open Level 1 Credits 20 Availability Not available in 2022/23 Module Cap Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • None.

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • To give an overview of the content of the Old Testament and of the modern scholarly debate surrounding its interpretation.
  • To equip students with skills and knowledge for further study of this subject area at level 2.

Content

  • This module offers a selective introduction both to the content of the Old Testament and to scholarly debate as to its interpretation.
  • Selected representative texts from the Law, the Prophets and the Writings are studied. The Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4-9), the Akedah (Genesis 22) and Isaiah's Vision (Isiaiah 6) will always be included, but other texts may vary from year to year.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • A knowledge of the underlying concepts and principles associated with the study of the Old Testament, and an ability to evaluate and interpret these within the context of that area of study.
  • A knowledge of the set texts and their broader significance.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • Skills in the close reading of biblical texts.
Key Skills:
  • Skills in the acquisition of information through reading and research, and in the structured presentation of information in written form.

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 and writing skills.
  • Formative essays develop subject-specific knowledge and understanding, along with student skills in the acquisition of information through reading and research, and in the structured presentation of information in written form.
  • Examinations assess subject-specific knowledge and understanding, along with student skills in the structured presentation of information in written form under time constraints.
  • Seminars enhance subject-specific knowledge and understanding both through preparation and through interaction with students and staff, promoting awareness of different viewpoints and approaches.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Seminars 6 3 in MT & EpT 1 hour 6
Lectures 22 1 per week 1 hour 22
Tutorials 3 As required 1 hour 3
Preparation and Reading 169
Total 200

Summative Assessment

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

Formative Assessment:

2 essays of no more than 2000 words each.


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