Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2023-2024 (archived)

Module THEO2651: Biblical Hebrew

Department: Theology and Religion

THEO2651: Biblical Hebrew

Type Open Level 2 Credits 20 Availability Not available in 2023/24 Module Cap None. Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • None

Corequisites

  • None

Excluded Combination 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 language’s 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

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 60 3 per week for the first two terms 1 hour 60
Preparation and Reading 140
Total 200

Summative Assessment

Component: Translational Exercise Component Weighting: 30%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Translational Exercise 100%
Component: Examination Component Weighting: 70%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Unseen Written Examination 2 hours 100%

Formative Assessment:

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


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