Introduction to Old Irish

Module Identifier: IR11920
Module Title: Introduction to Old Irish
Academic Year: 2027/2028
Semester: Semester 2 Taught over 2 semesters
Co-ordinator: Dr Simon Rodway
Reading List: View on Aspire
Pre-Requisite: IR11720
Exclusive (Any Acad Year)
Other Staff: Dr Llewelyn Hopwood

Assessment

Assessment Type	Assessment details	Proportion
Semester Assessment	Weekly tests:	40%
Semester Exam	Exam: 2 Hours	60%
Supplementary Assessment	Tests: The candidate will be required to retake the element(s) failed	40%
Supplementary Exam	Exam: 2 Hours	60%

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of this module students should be able to:

Translate accurately from Old Irish
Read short literary texts in the original language, and understand their place in the history of Irish literature.
Demonstrate an understanding of fundamental aspects of Old Irish grammar

Brief description

An introduction to elements of the grammar of Old Irish, the language of the earliest Irish texts. A number of short texts and extracts from longer texts will be read and discussed on this module. Discussion will include linguistic and literary issues.

Content

• The sources of Old Irish
• Orthography and pronunciation
• The noun (2 sessions)
• The article
• The adjective
• Numerals
• The verbs ‘to be’ (2 sessions)
• The present stem of the regular verb (3 sessions)
• Pronouns (2 sessions)
• The preterite stems of the regular verb (3 sessions)
• The subjunctive stem of the regular verb
• The future stem of the regular verb

Module skills

Skills type	Skills details
Application of Number	Not relevant
Communication	Written: clear articulation of ideas and analysis in written assignments. Verbal: class contribution, presentation and interaction.
Improving own Learning and Performance	By independent research; tutor feedback on written work and oral contribution in class; developing time/work management skills; reflecting upon presentational skills and other written work.
Information Technology	For research purposes (assignments and presentations); word-processing. Using electronic research and bibliographic resources; accessing Blackboard for course materials.
Personal Development and Career planning	Not relevant
Problem solving	By critical engagement (verbal and written) with intellectual concepts.
Research skills	Through independent research for written assessment, presentation and oral contribution in class. Using electronic research and bibliographical resources
Subject Specific Skills	Getting to grips with grammar, historical linguistics and issues of interpretation and contextualization of early medieval texts
Team work	Not relevant

Notes

This module is at CQFW Level 4