Intensive Persian Language

Key information

Status
Module not running
Module code
155901242
FHEQ Level
5
Credits
60

Module overview

The module is an introductory one covering the modern written language of Iran and the standard spoken language associated with Tehran. Requiring no previous knowledge of Persian, it begins with the phonetics of Persian and the Perso-Arabic script and proceeds to cover the morphology of Persian and all the main aspects of syntax as a preparation for subsequent years.

Prerequisites

Enrolment on the BA Persian and ... or the Certificate in Persian.

Objectives and learning outcomes of the module

At the end of the module, a student should be able to demonstrate…

  1. knowledge and understanding of basic Persian grammar
  2. knowledge and understanding of essential Persian vocabulary
  3. knowledge and understanding of the appropriateness of basic Persian structures and expressions in a given context
  4. the ability to understand short passages in written Persian on everyday topics
  5. the ability to produce short passages in written Persian on everyday topics
  6. the ability to understand spoken Persian and to engage in short spoken discourse on everyday topics

Workload

Total of 22 weeks teaching with 8 hours classroom contact per week. Daily assignments for completion outside the classroom will be given in the form of practices, translations, compositions, preparation for oral exercises etc.

Scope and syllabus

Reading: In the initial stages of mastering the script and elementary grammar, reading skill is developed through grammatical exercises and drills. From the middle of the first term selected passages from modern writers and journalistic prose are provided for additional classroom reading and written translation, the complexity of these increasing as the year progresses.

Writing: Writing skill is initially acquired through simple practices and in the course of grammatical exercises, and further practised in the later stages through translations and compositions.

Oral: Starting from the exchange of basic courtesies, oral practice continues with everyday topics of enquiry and response, and later includes exercise in expression of opinion and discussion of topics of contemporary general interest. Interactive practice is provided for.

Aural: Listening material in the form of recordings from Iranian radio stations and audio and video tapes of story reading, films etc. is available upon request.

Method of assessment

Two three-hour written examinations taken in May/June (30% each);  an oral examination of 20 minutes duration taken in May/June (20%); a two-hour mid term test in term 2 (20%).

Suggested reading

The main module text book is

  • Teach Yourself Modern Persian by Narguess Farzad .
  • Reading material in the form of selections from modern fiction and current journalism is also provided.

Disclaimer

Important notice regarding changes to programmes and modules