SOAS University of London

Department of the Languages and Cultures of Africa

Swahili 3

Module Code:
155900635
Unit value:
1
Year of study:
Year 3, Year 3 of 4 or Year 4 of 4
Taught in:
Full Year
The aim of the module is to deepen the student’s awareness of Swahili through the study of texts which belong to, and are produced in, both written and oral contexts. Students will examine the use of language in politics, religion, literature, songs and in the translation of classical works. By the end of the module, a student should have acquired an understanding of range of styles and registers of the language.

Prerequisites

Swahili II (or equivalent).

Objectives and learning outcomes of the module

At the end of the module, a student should be able to have a confident command of advanced Swahili grammar; have extensive knowledge of vocabulary in a range of areas of human life (health, humour, ethnic and cultural identity, clothing, dressing, animals, plants, and their role in Swahili culture) as well as of specialized scholarly areas (religion, literature, political discourse, certain philosophical concepts); and be familiar with fundamental realities of Swahili culture. The student will also develop appropriate practical written, aural, and oral skills to express the newly acquired knowledge.

Workload

Total of 22 weeks teaching with 3 hours classroom contact per week consisting of a 2 hour lecture and a 1 hour tutorial.

Method of assessment

Two oral examinations of 20 minutes duration each (30%); a translation portfolio plus commentary of 1500 words to be submitted on day 5, week 1, term 3 (40%); a quiz test (30%).

Suggested reading

The reading list for this module will be made available from the convenor.

Disclaimer

Important notice regarding changes to programmes and modules