Lesson 5: Letter Raa (Sahpe 2)
Letter Raa (Sahpe 2)
Introduction
In this lesson, you will learn how to write the Arabic letter Raa in its second form using the Thuluth calligraphy style.
This shape of Raa is more refined and flowing, with smooth transitions and carefully balanced proportions. It is commonly used in elegant compositions where harmony and softness are required. Practicing this form will help you improve your control of rising curves, short vertical connections, and precise head placement.
Letter Data
- Letter: Raa
- Script: Thuluth
- Form: Shape 2
- Total strokes: 4
- Pen angle: 70°–90°
- Total length: Based on nuqta measurements
Stroke Details
Stroke 1:
- angle: 70°
- direction: Downward with a gentle curve
- length: 3 nuqta (height)
- width: 1 nuqta
- pressure: Medium
- description: Draw the first vertical curved stroke to establish the opening of the letter.
Stroke 2:
- angle: 70°
- direction: Upward flowing curve
- length: 3.5 nuqta (height)
- height above baseline: 2 nuqta
- pressure: Medium
- description: Extend the stroke upward to form the main rising curve of the letter.
Stroke 3:
- angle: 90°
- direction: Short downward vertical
- length: 2.5 nuqta (height)
- width: 1 nuqta
- pressure: Medium
- description: Draw a short vertical segment to connect smoothly with the previous curve and strengthen the structure.
Stroke 4:
- angle: Natural
- direction: Small curved head stroke
- length: 1 nuqta
- height: 1 nuqta
- pressure: Light
- description: Draw the final head stroke to balance the letter and complete its form.
- Initial vertical curve
- Rising curve stroke
- Vertical connecting stroke
- Head stroke
- Curve too sharp or too flat
- Weak connection between strokes 2 and 3
- Head stroke too large or misplaced
- Uneven stroke thickness
- Inconsistent pen angle
Practice Stroke 1 and Stroke 2 together to achieve a smooth, continuous flow before adding the connecting and head 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 covers writing the letter Raa with its simple curved form. Students will practice clean stroke endings and consistent thickness.
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