QAC11 – Syntax
Course Overview
This module aims to develop a thorough understanding of Arabic Syntax (‘Ilm al-Naḥw), the science that discusses the states of word-endings once the words have been composed into a sentence. It will instil an appreciation of the important role syntax plays in enabling the reader to correctly understand verses of the Qur’an, traditions and other classical texts. It will examine a complete range of syntactical rules and structures and to explore how changes in grammatical composition affect meaning; and develop skills in critical reading and understanding classical Arabic, enhancing the student’s ability to refer to the wealth of Arabic resources required for Islamic studies.
Module Info
sYLLABUS
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- Introduction to Syntax
- What is a Complete Sentence?
- The Verb (al-Fi‘l)
- The Subjunctive Mood (al-Manṣūb) of the Imperfect Verb (al-Fi‘l al-Muḍāri‘)
- The Jussive Mood (al-Majzūm) of the Imperfect Verb (al-Fi‘l al-Muḍāri‘)
- The Indicative Mood (al-Marfū‘) of the Imperfect Verb (al-Fi‘l al-Muḍāri‘)
- The Noun (al-Ism)
- The Nominative Case (al-Marfū‘)
- The Accusative Case (al-Manṣūb)
- The Genitive Case (al-Majrūr)
- Hidden Vowel Signs of a Declinable Noun
- The Adjective (al-Na‘t) and the Conjuction (al-‘Atf)
- The Emphatic (al-Tawkīd) and the Apposition (al-Badl)
- Desinential Syntax (al-‘Irāb) of Indeclinable Words and Sentences
Learning Outcomes
On completion of this module, the successful student will be able to:
- Outline the basic grammatical rules of Arabic (A1, A3)
- Distinguish the grammatical functions of different expressions and sentence structures (A2)
Skills
This module will call for successful students to:
- Focus and use various grammatical structures (B1, C1, C2)
- Read classical Arabic texts with correct desinential syntax (al-‘Irāb) (B1, B2, D1, D2, D5)
- Select and use online Arabic grammar resources to examine the role of syntax in understanding the meaning of verses of the Qur’an (C2, C4, D6)
Learning, Teaching and Assessment Strategy
Lectures provide the basic structure of this module. The use of questioning, individual exercises and small group work ensures that students are constantly engaged and take an active role in the learning process. The portfolio of student’s 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 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 and written examination. The portfolio will comprise of three completed exercises of around 350 words each on topics covered in class (Outcomes 3, 4, 5). The written examination will take place at the end of the module (Outcomes 1, 2).
Assessment Weighting
Portfolio: 30%
Written examination: 70%
Learning Material
Core Reading
Al-Shartuni, R. (2007). Mabadi al-Arabiyyah. Qum: Dar al-Ilm