Monash University Handbook 2010 Undergraduate - Unit

Synopsis

Yiddish 2B is an extension of Yiddish 2A. The central feature of both Yiddish 2A and 2B will be the further teaching of Yiddish as a living language, as a tool for both written and spoken communication. The course is designed for students who wish to improve their knowledge of the subject both in its literary and conversational form. The course will include use of non-literary texts and exercises to develop grammatical, syntactic and idiomatic mastery of the language. An additional component will utilise Yiddish literary texts of Australia as well as of other countries. Completion of parts A and B will prepare students to continue to an eventual major in the subject.

Objectives

Upon successful completion of Yiddish 2 students will:

• be able to demonstrate a fluency in reading and writing Yiddish script

• have a working understanding of spoken Standard Modern Yiddish

• acquire the ability to write original short essays in Yiddish; acquire advanced skills required for Yiddish conversation

• have an appreciation of the richness of Yiddish as a rich literary and cultural tradition

• demonstrate a critical appraisal of selected Yiddish authors and poets and their writings

Assessment

Short weekly assignments involving written work, oral presentations, dictation, comprehension and short essays - equivalent to 2500 words: 50% of the total assessment. Two hour examination of two hours duration: 50% of the total assessment

Chief examiner(s)

Prof James Walter

Contact hours

3 hours of lectures and 1 x 1 hour language laboratory per week

This unit applies to the following area(s) of study

Jewish civilisation

Prerequisites

JWC2110 - Yiddish 2A or an approved equivalent standard