In the Name of God

Mofid University

Department of English Language

Translating Scientific and Technical Texts

Instructor: M. Riyahi Course Level: B.A.

2nd Semester 01-02 Course Type: Required

Email: Riyahimahsa.ac@gmail.com

This course is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to translate
scientific and technical texts. Students will learn about the terminology, style, and writing
conventions of scientific and technical texts in different fields, as well as the challenges
involved in translating them accurately and clearly. They will also learn about the role of
technology in scientific and technical translation, including the use of specialized software and
other tools.

Units of Study

I. Introduction to Scientific and Technical Translation

• Definition and characteristics of scientific and technical texts

• Challenges and opportunities of translating scientific and technical texts
• Ethical considerations in scientific and technical translation

II. Terminology and Research

• Understanding specialized terminology and concepts

• Strategies for researching scientific and technical texts
• Use of dictionaries and other reference materials

III. Writing Conventions and Style

• Characteristics of scientific and technical writing

• Common writing conventions in different fields
• Strategies for maintaining consistency and accuracy in translation

1
IV. Translation Strategies and Techniques

• Literal and free translation

• Translating numbers, units, and symbols
• Handling abbreviations and acronyms
• Dealing with technical drawings and diagrams

V. Technology in Scientific and Technical Translation

• Specialized software and tools for scientific and technical translation

• Use of translation memory software
• Machine translation and post-editing

Texts:

The course texts, including theoretical essays and translations to be done, will be uploaded to
your e-class platform. It is the student’s responsibility to print out and bring to class these
materials (or have them with you on your laptop or tablet), as they will not be distributed in class.

Course Requirements, Evaluation & Assessment:

1. You will be given texts that you are expected to translate at home using the techniques
discussed during our sessions. Then, we will go through the translations together in
class.
You will also write a LinkedIn article each week. The article should be written
professionally and should be a reflection of what you have learned in class. The articles
will be published on your LinkedIn profile and shared in class.

Your translations, LinkedIn articles, and active participation in class will give you
6 points out of 20.
2. You will hand in a final project.

The final project will carry 4 points out of 20.

3. You will take a final examination.

The final examination will carry 10 points out of 20.

2
Attention:

1. Your timely and regular attendance is a must. You will fail the course if you miss 3 sessions.
2. Evidently, your class participation and timely handover of the assignments will be taken into
serious consideration when reporting your final grade.

Good Luck!

2nd Semester 01-02