Lesson 5: Letter Raa (Sahpe 3)
Letter Raa (Shape 3)
Introduction
In this lesson, you will learn how to write the Arabic letter Raa in its third form using the Thuluth calligraphy style.
This shape of Raa is bold and structured, focusing on symmetry, clean edges, and precise proportions. It is often used when a strong visual presence is needed in calligraphic compositions. Practicing this form will help you improve control over short vertical strokes, smooth upward curves, and accurate alignment.
Letter Data
- Letter: Raa
- Script: Thuluth
- Form: Shape 3
- Total strokes: 3
- Pen angle: 90°
- Total length: Based on nuqta measurements
Stroke Details
Stroke 1:
- angle: 90°
- direction: Downward (vertical)
- length: 2 nuqta
- height: 1 nuqta
- pressure: Medium and steady
- description: Draw a short vertical stroke to form the base of the letter with a clean and straight start.
Stroke 2:
- angle: 90°
- direction: Upward flowing curve
- length: 4 nuqta (width)
- height: 2.5 nuqta
- pressure: Medium
- description: Draw a gentle curved stroke that rises upward to form the main body of the letter.
Stroke 3:
- angle: 90°
- direction: Downward (vertical)
- length: 1 nuqta
- height: 2.5 nuqta
- pressure: Medium
- description: Draw the final short vertical stroke to complete the structure of the letter.
- Base vertical stroke
- Rising curved body stroke
- Final vertical stroke
- Making the base stroke too wide or too narrow
- Curve too sharp or too flat
- Misaligned final stroke
- Uneven stroke thickness
- Poor symmetry
Practice Stroke 2 separately to achieve a smooth and controlled upward curve 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 covers writing the letter Raa with its simple curved form. Students will practice clean stroke endings and consistent thickness.
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