Lesson 3: Letter Jeem (Shape 2)
Letter Jeem (Shape 2)
Introduction
In this lesson, you will learn how to write the Arabic letter Jeem in its second form using the Thuluth calligraphy style.
This shape of Jeem is more dynamic and flowing, emphasizing smooth transitions, balanced proportions, and graceful curves. It helps students develop advanced control over curved strokes, letter width, and body construction.
Practicing this form will improve your ability to write expressive letters while maintaining precision and consistency in Thuluth calligraphy.
Letter Data
- Letter: Jeem
- Script: Thuluth
- Form: Shape 2
- Total strokes: 5
- Pen angle: 63°–90°
- Total length: Based on stroke measurements (nuqta system)
Stroke Details
Stroke 1:
- angle: 63°
- direction: Short curved opening stroke
- length: 1.5 nuqta
- height: Proportional to stroke width
- pressure: Light to medium
- description: Draw the first short stroke to establish the beginning of the letter with a smooth and natural flow.
Stroke 2:
- angle: 63°
- direction: Slight curved extension
- length: 1.5 nuqta
- height: Proportional to stroke width
- pressure: Light to medium
- description: Draw a second stroke parallel to the first to strengthen the opening structure and maintain symmetry.
Stroke 3:
- angle: Smooth curve (sloping downward)
- direction: Curved downward
- length: 4 nuqta
- height: 1 nuqta
- pressure: Medium
- description: Draw a curved stroke to connect the opening to the main body of the letter.
Stroke 4:
- angle: 63°
- direction: Wide curved body stroke
- length: 5 nuqta
- height: 4 nuqta
- pressure: Medium and steady
- description: Draw the primary stroke that forms the main body of the letter and defines its overall shape.
Stroke 5:
- angle: 90°
- direction: Curved tail to the left
- length: 5 nuqta (+ 1.5 nuqta tail extension)
- height: 4 nuqta
- pressure: Medium
- description: Draw the final stroke to form the tail and complete the letter with a smooth, elegant finish.
- Opening foundation stroke
- Secondary opening stroke
- Transition curve stroke
- Main body stroke
- Tail stroke
- Uneven opening strokes
- Weak transition curve
- Body too narrow or too wide
- Tail too short or too sharp
- Inconsistent pen angle
Practice the opening two strokes together first, then the main body stroke separately before combining all strokes.
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 introduces the second shape of the letter Jeem. Students will learn how to form its main bowl shape and tail using balanced strokes and consistent pen angle.
There are no comments for now.
to be the first to leave a comment.