Teaching: Punjabi Language

The courses offered in this area are as follows:

Elementary Punjabi (RS 90A-C) assumes no prior knowledge of the language. It is an intensive, beginner's course in the speaking, reading, and writing of Punjabi. The course begins with learning Gurmukhi* script, and goes on to include lessons in phonology and grammar up to a basic conversational level.

Intermediate Punjabi (RS90D-E) incorporates texts such as short stories, poetry, articles, and songs to refine the grammar and nuances of the language. Through these readings, the student's vocabulary grows, as does his or her proficiency in using the dictionary and deciphering difficult or idiomatic grammatical constructions.

Twentieth Century Literature (RS292) provides an overview of Punjabi literature in the light of the important historical and cultural event of the century. Readings in 2005 included poems by Bhai Vir Singh, Dhani Ram Chatrik, Mohan Singh, Amrita Pritam, Ahmad Rahi, Munir Niazi, Najm Hussain Syed, Shiv Kumar, Ahmad Salim, Surjit Patar, and Amarjit Chandan. As the critical mass of students in advanced Punjabi grows, the class will be offered with varied readings and authors.

*The Gurmukhi serves as the primary script for learning Punjabi but effort is made to encourage those who like to learn it in Indo-Persian script. The two-year sequence prepares students to begin working with Punjabi texts or to conduct fieldwork.

In addition to the above courses, the Center for Sikh and Punjab Studies also offers Punjabi Language Proficiency Certifications. Please see the details under the section on Outreach.