Kurdish languages 101

The Kurdish language varieties, their scripts, and how linguists and speakers classify them.

Level

Foundations

Who it is for

Everyone from about age 14: young people, adults, parents and newcomers. No prior knowledge is needed.

Format

Self-paced online, in plain language, with maps, figures, short quizzes and a discussion.

About 6 hours. Hours are an estimate.

What you will be able to do

• Name the main Kurdish varieties and where they are spoken.
• Explain how Glottolog classifies Kurdish, Zazaki and Gorani, and how many speakers see it.
• Recognise the Latin, Arabic-based and Cyrillic scripts used for Kurdish.

Modules

1. One name, several varieties. Kurdish in the Iranian language family.
2. Kurmanji, Sorani and Southern Kurdish. The main varieties and where they are spoken.
3. Zazaki and Gorani. Classification and self-identification, side by side.
4. Writing Kurdish. Latin, Arabic-based and Cyrillic scripts.

Assessment

A short check after each module, with feedback. Completion is recorded; it is not an accredited award.

Status

Draft lessons, written with AI assistance. A subject expert reviews them, then a copy editor, before they are published. Completion is recorded; nothing is accredited.

Course code: KCO-LNG-14.