AQA A-Level Biblical Hebrew
Explore your course, one topic at a time.
Explore your topics
13 study areas
Unseen translation, comprehension, pointing and composition1 topic
Prose literature and poetry1 topic
Grammar8 topics
Set texts2 topics
Vocabulary1 topic
About this course
About AQA A-Level Biblical Hebrew
The AQA A-Level in Biblical Hebrew offers students a rigorous and rewarding opportunity to engage with the original language of the Hebrew Bible. Over the two-year course, you will develop proficiency in reading, translating, and analysing Biblical Hebrew texts, while exploring the historical, religious, and cultural contexts in which they were written. The specification is structured to build your skills progressively, from foundational grammar and vocabulary to the interpretation of complex passages and themes.
Key themes include the nature of God, covenant, prophecy, and wisdom literature, as well as the role of the Hebrew Bible in shaping Jewish and Christian traditions. You will study a range of genres, such as narrative, law, poetry, and prophecy, and learn to apply exegetical methods. The course is assessed through written examinations that test your language skills, textual knowledge, and critical analysis, preparing you for further study in theology, religious studies, or ancient languages.
Assessment Structure
The AQA A-Level Biblical Hebrew is assessed through three written examinations, each worth 33.3% of the final grade. Paper 1 focuses on translation and comprehension of unseen Biblical Hebrew texts, Paper 2 requires the study of set texts with commentary and essay questions, and Paper 3 involves a thematic study with an extended essay. All papers are externally marked, with a total of 300 marks available across the three papers. There is no coursework or practical component.
Why Choose AQA?
- AQA offers a well-structured and accessible specification for Biblical Hebrew, with clear learning outcomes and a logical progression from GCSE to A-Level, making it ideal for students who have prior experience or are starting afresh.
- The set texts and themes are carefully chosen to cover a broad range of genres and key theological concepts, providing a balanced and engaging course that supports both linguistic and analytical development.
- AQA provides a wide range of support materials, including past papers, mark schemes, and exemplar answers, which are invaluable for exam preparation and help students understand exactly what examiners expect.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to have studied Biblical Hebrew at GCSE to take the A-Level?
How is the A-Level Biblical Hebrew assessed and what are the exam papers like?
What support materials does AQA provide for Biblical Hebrew?
Is Biblical Hebrew A-Level respected by universities?
What career paths can an A-Level in Biblical Hebrew lead to?
Assessment and exam guidance
What Gets Top Grades
Knowledge & Understanding
Demonstrates comprehensive and accurate knowledge
- Uses correct subject-specific terminology
- Shows detailed understanding of concepts
- Makes accurate connections between topics
- Demonstrates depth beyond surface-level knowledge
Application
Applies knowledge effectively to new contexts
- Selects relevant knowledge for the question
- Adapts understanding to unfamiliar scenarios
- Uses examples appropriately
- Shows awareness of context
Analysis & Evaluation
Develops sophisticated analytical arguments
- Constructs logical chains of reasoning
- Considers multiple perspectives
- Weighs evidence to reach justified conclusions
- Acknowledges limitations and nuances
Key Command Words
Give a single fact or term
Name, select, or recognise
Set out main features briefly
Give an account of what something is like or what happens
Give reasons with developed cause→effect chains
State similarities AND differences (both required)
Examine in detail showing cause→effect→consequence chains
Weigh up BOTH sides, reach JUSTIFIED conclusion
Make judgments about importance with justification
Show formula→substitution→calculation→answer with units
Ready for a little practice?
Create your account to start practising Biblical Hebrew.
7 days Premium · Then the free plan continues · No card, no charge