Translation, Comprehension, and Composition.
(Merged Question Paper and Marking Scheme)
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A-level
BIBLICAL HEBREW
Paper 1 Translation, Comprehension and Composition
Monday 20 May 2024 Afternoon Time allowed: 3 hours
Materials For Examiner’s Use
For this paper you must have:
the Source Booklet. Section Mark
Instructions
Use black ink or black ball-point pen. A
Fill in the boxes at the top of this page.
Answer all questions in Section A, all questions in Section B and all questions B
in Section C.
C
You must answer the questions in the spaces provided. Do not write outside
the box around each page or on blank pages. TOTAL
If you need extra space for your answer(s), use the lined pages at the end of
this book. Write the question number against your answer(s).
Do all rough work in this book. Cross through any work you do not want to be marked.
Information
The marks for each question are shown in brackets.
The maximum mark for this paper is 150.
You must not use a dictionary.
All answers must be written in English, with the following exceptions: roots, individual Hebrew letters
and short quotes from the text, if the Biblical Hebrew is necessary for a complete illustration of the
answer. Answers in Biblical Hebrew must be written using the ‘block’ system.
A high level of accuracy in written English is required at this level, and accurate spelling and
punctuation are important. Transliteration of Biblical Hebrew words is only acceptable for proper
nouns – all other words must be translated into English.
,For A-level Biblical Hebrew Paper 1: Translation, Comprehension, and Composition, focus on the
following key areas:
1. Translation:
Vocabulary Mastery: Focus on acquiring a strong command of Biblical Hebrew vocabulary, especially
common words and phrases used in Biblical texts. Understand root words and their various forms, as
Biblical Hebrew often involves root-based word construction.
Grammar and Syntax: Review key grammatical structures, including verb conjugations (perfect,
imperfect, imperative), noun-adjective agreement, and word order. Pay attention to distinctive features of
Biblical Hebrew grammar, like construct chains and the use of waw-consecutive.
2. Comprehension:
Reading for Understanding: In comprehension exercises, focus on understanding the overall meaning of
the passage, not just individual words. Be able to identify key ideas, themes, and theological concepts.
Identify Key Words: Identify significant words that provide clues about the meaning or structure of the
passage, such as conjunctions (e.g., ְו, )אם,
ִ prepositions, or verbs.
Interpretation: Practice interpreting passages by considering both the linguistic and historical context.
Understand the literary forms used in the text (e.g., narrative, poetry, prophecy) and how they influence
meaning.
3. Composition:
Sentence Construction: Be prepared to construct sentences in Biblical Hebrew, following proper
grammar rules. Practice writing simple sentences and then advance to more complex ones.
Style and Syntax: Pay attention to the Biblical Hebrew style. Write sentences in a way that reflects the
ancient text's form, using correct word order, verb tense, and syntax.
Thematic Writing: In the composition section, you may be asked to write about a specific theme. Focus
on writing concise, clear sentences related to the theme while maintaining the structure of Biblical
Hebrew.
4. Time Management:
Strategic Focus: Allocate enough time to both translation and comprehension sections, as well as for
composition.ְDon’tְrushְthroughְthe translation—accuracy is key.
Organize: For the composition, plan out your sentences briefly before you begin writing. This helps
ensure you follow grammatical rules and maintain clarity.
5. Practice and Revision:
Use Past Papers: Practice with past exam papers to familiarize yourself with the format and the types of
passages you may encounter.
Vocabulary and Grammar Drills: Regularly practice key vocabulary and grammar rules to reinforce your
understanding and recall during the exam.
This paper is divided into three sections:
Section A Unseen prose translation, comprehension and pointing 50 marks
Section B Unseen poetry translation and comprehension 50 marks
Section C Composition 50 marks
G/TI/Jun24/G4004/E12 7677/1
, 2
Do not write
outside the
Section A – Unseen Prose Translation, Comprehension and Pointing box
Answer all questions in the spaces provided.
0 1 Translate Passage 1 from the Source Booklet into English.
[20 marks]
G/Jun24/7677/1
, 3
Do not write
outside the
box
Turn over U
G/Jun24/7677/1