Lesson 19: Letter Yaa (Shape 1)
Letter Yaa (Shape 1)
Introduction
In this lesson, you will learn how to write the Arabic letter Yaa in its first form using the Thuluth calligraphy style.
Yaa Shape 1 is a refined and elegant letter that combines diagonal motion with strong vertical structure. It helps students practice smooth stroke transitions, vertical alignment, and proportional height control. Mastering this form strengthens accuracy and visual balance in advanced Thuluth writing.
Letter Data
- Letter: Yaa
- Script: Thuluth
- Shape: 1
- Total strokes: 4
- Pen angle: 70°–90°
- Total length: Based on nuqta measurements
Stroke Details
Stroke 1:
- angle: 70°
- direction: Diagonal downward
- length: 2.5 nuqtas (height)
- width: 2 nuqtas
- pressure: Medium and steady
- description: Draw a diagonal stroke to introduce motion and form the foundational curve of the letter.
Stroke 2:
- angle: 90°
- direction: Downward vertical
- length: 2.5 nuqtas (height)
- width: 2 nuqtas
- pressure: Medium
- description: Draw a vertical stroke connected to the first stroke to build the central structure of the Yaa.
Stroke 3:
- angle: 90°
- direction: Downward vertical
- length: 2.5 nuqtas (height)
- width: 3 nuqtas
- pressure: Medium
- description: Draw a slightly wider vertical stroke to strengthen the body and enhance visual presence.
Stroke 4:
- angle: 90°
- direction: Downward vertical
- length: 4 nuqtas (height)
- width: 1.5 nuqtas
- pressure: Medium to light at the end
- description: Draw a tall finishing stroke to complete the letter and achieve balanced vertical proportion.
- Diagonal opening stroke
- First vertical body stroke
- Second vertical body stroke
- Final height stroke
- Diagonal stroke too steep or too short
- Vertical strokes not aligned
- Body too narrow or too wide
- Final stroke too short
- Uneven stroke thickness
Practice strokes 2 and 3 together to ensure smooth alignment and consistent spacing before adding the final tall stroke.
Structured Practice Guidelines for Letter Mastery
The "Guidelines for Letter Mastery" table provides a clear and systematic approach for students to practice and refine their Arabic calligraphy skills. It outlines each step, the recommended time allocation, and detailed descriptions to ensure effective and focused practice sessions. This table is designed to help students build consistency, master letter proportions, and develop a strong foundation in Arabic calligraphy.
| Step | Time | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Set Aside Dedicated Practice Time | 15–20 minutes per session | Allocate focused time for practice. Aim for 3–4 sessions per week to build consistency and muscle memory. |
| Understand the Letter's Structure | 2–3 minutes | Review examples and stroke breakdowns. Familiarize yourself with angles, proportions, and key components. |
| Begin with Tracing | 5–7 minutes | Trace the letter on the worksheet to understand its flow and stroke angles. |
| Practice Freehand | 10–12 minutes | Draw the letter freehand using guides. Focus on clean strokes, proportions, and consistency. |
| Refine with Repetition | 5–10 minutes | Repeat the letter multiple times, aiming to improve alignment, spacing, and smoothness. |
| Evaluate Your Progress | 2–3 minutes | Compare your work to the examples on the worksheet. Identify areas for improvement. |
| Incorporate Feedback | As needed | Seek feedback from an instructor or peer and apply their suggestions in future sessions. |
This lesson teaches how to write Yaa with flowing strokes and balanced tail formation, preparing students for connected writing.
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