HSC113 – Arabic Syntax
This module will build on the students’ knowledge of Syntax by furthering their depth of understanding of syntactical rules in general and their application to classical Islamic texts in particular. Moreover, it will enhance the students’ ability to refer to the wealth of Arabic resources required for Hawza studies.
Syllabus
- The Verb (al-Fi‘l)
o The Indicative Mood (al-Marfū‘) of the Imperfect Verb (al-Fi‘l al-Muḍāri‘)
o The Subjunctive Mood (al-Manṣūb) of the Imperfect Verb (al-Fi‘l al-Muḍāri‘)
o The Jussive Mood (al-Majzūm) of the Imperfect Verb (al-Fi‘l al-Muḍāri‘) - The Noun (al-Ism)
o The Nominative Case (al-Marfū‘)
o The Accusative Case (al-Manṣūb)
o The Genitive Case (al-Majrūr)
o The Followers - The Particle (al-Ḥarf)
o Prepositions (Ḥurūf al-Jarr)
o Particles of Oath (Aḥruf al-Qasam)
o Conjunctions (Aḥruf al-‘Atf)
o Interrogative, Answer, Negative and Aversion Particles (Aḥruf al-Istifhām, al-Jawāb, al-Nafī wa al-Rad‘)
Learning Outcomes
Knowledge
On completion of this module, the successful student will be able to:
- Discuss the basic rules of Arabic Syntax. (A5, D1)
- Grammatically analyse sentences in classical Arabic texts. (B1, B3, C6, D1)
Skills
This module will call for the successful student to:
- Apply Arabic Grammar to formal written and spoken Arabic. (B1, B3, C6, D1, D2, D4)
- Utilize Arabic dictionaries and sourcebooks of Arabic grammar. (C5, D5, D6)
Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategy
Lectures provide the basic structure of this module. The use of questioning and small group work in class ensures that students are constantly engaged and take an active role in the learning process. The portfolio of students’ work requires learners to apply their learning to carefully selected verses of the Qur’an and traditions. Students are expected to discuss material presented in class in their mubāḥathah (study circle) sessions to enhance understanding and retention.
Assessment Modes
Students are set bi-weekly formative assignments on Arabic, and receive feedback as they are handed in throughout the year. Although portfolios are done during class, students are required to see the module leader regularly in tutorials to receive formative feedback on their performance and support with their portfolio work. Additionally, revision sessions are arranged that will cover topics in preparation for exams, continuously strengthening and developing students’ competence in the Arabic language. Moreover, tutorial time enables the module leader to supported continuously while providing the opportunity for constant engagement with the language, and constructive feedback related to the development of language skills.
Summative, graded assessment is by portfolio, which will comprise of three exercises to be completed in class, of around 350 words each, on syllabus topics assigned by the lecturer (Outcomes 3, 4). Additionally, 2 hour written examination will take place at the end of the module (Outcomes 1, 2).
Assessment Weighting
Portfolio: 30%
Written examination: 70%
Learning materials
Core readings
- Al-Shartuni, R. (2007). Mabadi al-Arabiyyah (volumes 2 and 3). Qum: Dar al-Ilm.
- Shirafkan, H. ed. (2008). Al-Hidayah fi al-Nahw. Qum: Al-Mustafa International University.
- Abdur-Rasheed, A. (translator). (2008). The Guidance in Arabic Grammar. Madani E Publications.
