New memorization
The new portion the student has memorized since the last session, usually recited at the start of the session. The focus is on accurate memorization and recitation, and the student shouldn't move on before mastering it.
Revision
Reciting previously memorized portions so they aren't forgotten, usually a larger amount than new memorization, in a rotation that regularly covers everything memorized before.
Reinforcement
Repeating recently memorized portions, such as the last pages or juz, until they are solid before they join the long revision rotation. Some call this near revision.
Tajweed
A recitation focused on the rules of recitation and the articulation of letters, not only on memorization. It works well to grade it separately from memorization.
Tests
An assessment of a larger portion, such as a full juz or several, usually at the end of a stage of the plan. It shows how solid the memorization is, and may be given by a teacher other than the circle's own for more objectivity.
Preparation
Not a recitation but an assignment: what the student must memorize or revise for the next session. Recording it makes it clear to the student and their family.
How recitations are graded
Many circles use a simple scale such as excellent, very good, good, acceptable, and needs repeating, and some link grades to points that add up for each student. What matters is a clear scale applied the same way by all teachers, and repeating a recitation that needs it before moving on.
Recording recitations in Halaqat
In Halaqat, teachers record for each student the type of recitation (memorization, revision, reinforcement, tajweed, test), the surah and ayahs or pages, the grade and points, plus preparation for the next session. The types appear separately in the statistics, so supervisors know how much each student memorized and how much they revised.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between revision and reinforcement?
Reinforcement repeats recent portions until they are solid; revision is a regular rotation through everything memorized before so it isn't forgotten.
Should new memorization be recited before or after revision?
Circles differ; many start with new memorization and then revision. What matters is that each type gets its time in every session.
When should a student be tested?
Usually after completing a juz or several, or at the end of a stage in their memorization plan.
