Intro. to Greek I

Syllabus: 

B 324 fall 2010.doc [2]

Course Description Masters Level

McCormick Theological Seminary

Course Number and Title:  B324 Greek Exegesis I

Faculty:  Sarah Tanzer

Term:  Fall 2010

Course Description:  To introduce basic Greek grammar with particular emphasis on nouns, prepositions, adjectives, pronouns, and the verb in the Indicative mood along with some of the basic principles of Greek verse and sentence structure.  Another purpose of this first quarter of Biblical Greek is to build an elementary vocabulary, so that we can start to read Biblical narratives (with help) not too far into the course.  It is also hoped that students will begin to grasp the relationship between translation and biblical interpretation.

          This course is the first half of a non-divisible two-semester sequence in Greek Exegesis.  The ultimate purpose of the two-semester sequence is to become prepared to translate, interpret and consult the Greek Bible with the assistance of lexical and grammatical tools, and to begin a life-long enjoyment of Biblical Greek.   

Course Objectives:  By the end of this course students will:

• Have been introduced to and practiced most of New Testament Greek grammar up to the verb in the indicative mood;
• have developed a New Testament Greek Vocabulary that includes those words used most often;
• have an elementary ability to translate selected New Testament verses;
• have an opportunity to discuss and think about the relationship between translation and interpretation of the Biblical Text.

Masters Program Learning Outcomes

The learning outcomes established for each degree program are below. The ones that are underlined are those addressed by the course above. Because a course may be taken by students in any masters degree program, outcomes in more than one degree program may be addressed by this course.

M.Div. Learning Outcomes             

1. Lead communities of faith with integrity, imagination and compassion.
2. Perform the skills related to nurturing the life of faith (for self and others) including preaching, teaching, care-giving, leading public worship and public ministries.
3. Demonstrate knowledge of the Bible and Christian traditions and the ability to interpret texts and practices.
4. Work and worship with people from diverse backgrounds (racial, ethnic, religious) informed by knowledge from cross-cultural and anti-racist perspectives.
5. Analyze social locations and cultural contexts in order to develop contextual forms of Christian ministry.
6. Be proficient in the theological and ethical reflection related to situations and decisions in local, national and global contexts.
7. Practice appropriate habits of spiritual formation and self-care and possess a growing, healthy sense of vocational identity.

MTS Learning Outcomes

1. Exhibit the ability to interpret and teach Christian traditions, texts, and practices that nurture the life of faith and scholarship in themselves and the communities they serve.
2. Articulate a point of view effectively and coherently in spoken and written communication.
3. Engage in theological research and analysis based upon an argument and construct a theological essay or thesis article.

MA in Discipleship Development Learning Outcomes

1. Teach basic concepts of Christian belief, traditions and practices.
2. Equip others to engage in a variety of spiritual practices (such as prayer, hospitality, or worship).
3. Plan and lead programs of Christian formation in a variety of settings.
4. Analyze and evaluate resources and practices for Christian formation.

MA in Urban Ministry Learning Outcomes

1. Examine and analyze urban contexts using Chicago as a laboratory / case study.
2. Draw on biblical and theological resources to reflect ethically on issues of church and society.
3. Demonstrate capacity to engage in cross-cultural ministries.
4. Evaluate skills and strategies to organize communities and access political power in urban settings.

Primary Texts  3 by William D. Mounce, published by Zondervan:

Basics of Biblical Greek Grammar.  2009-3^rd edition.

Basics of Biblical Greek Workbook.  2009—3^rd edition.

Biblical Greek Laminated Sheet.

Approximate amount of work per week students can expect (reading, writing, etc.)

Pre-reading chapters of grammar, studying and working through required exercises at least five nights/week for 1.5 hours per night.

Course Assignments and Projects

Daily workbook exercises and quizzes on the material introduced in the previous class; 3 exams.