Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2023-2024

Module THEO3031: ARAMAIC

Department: Theology and Religion

THEO3031: ARAMAIC

Type Open Level 3 Credits 20 Availability Not available in 2023/24 Module Cap Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • Biblical Hebrew (THEO1151) or Syriac (THEO2061) 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. In these sessions, students are very much involved in demonstrating their developing skills in translation and comprehension of Aramaic grammar and syntax.
  • Examinations assess subject-specific knowledge and understanding, along with student skills in the structured presentation of information in written form under time constraints.
  • Summative 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.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 20 2 hours per week in the first two terms 1 hour 40 ■
Preparation and Reading 160
Total 200

Summative Assessment

Component: Examination Component Weighting: 60%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Unseen Written Examination 2 hours 100%
Component: Essay Component Weighting: 40%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Essay 3000 words 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