Hifz schools, also known as madrasas, are Islamic educational institutions specializing in Holy Quran memorization (hifz). They utilize proven, structured techniques to help students accurately memorize the Quran from beginning till end. Here is an overview of the step-by-step curriculum used in most hifz schools:
Admission Process
Students are admitted into hifz programs after passing admission tests assessing their basic Quran recitation fluency. This ensures they can correctly pronounce letters before memorizing. Students commence at a suitable surah based on their level.
Introductory Tajweed Rules
In the first few months, key tajweed rules of proper Quranic pronunciation like makharij, nun saakinah, ghunnah, qalqalah etc. are instilled through audio aids and constant repetition. Students must master articulate recitation.
Gradual Memorization
Students begin with memorizing small surahs from Juz Amma, progressing to longer ones. Targets are set at 1-2 new ayat daily alongside revising past lessons. Daily classes typically last 2-3 hours with 10-15 minutes focused on each new ayah.
Breaking into Small Portions
Longer surahs are divided into smaller portions of just 4-5 ayat. Perfecting one portion completely before moving ahead makes memorization more manageable.
Reading & Listening
Students first read each new ayah aloud after the teacher multiple times while looking at the Quran. Then they practice reciting with eyes closed to memorize. Listening to audio recordings is also key.
Understanding Meaning
Teachers explain the translation and meaning of each ayah to aid memorization. Students comprehend what they are memorizing.
Memorization Techniques
Mnemonics, stories, mental imagery, acronyms and other memory techniques help students recollect the ayat. Reviewing a surah’s meaning overview also boosts retention.
Intensive Revision
Each day’s lesson is revised consistently for 1-2 weeks until mastered before adding new ayat. This spaced repetition of old material is critical for cementing long-term memory.
Assessments
Short oral tests are conducted weekly and monthly to evaluate progress. Students must score 90% to move forward. This ensures proficiency.
Group Recitation
Daily group recitation sessions allow students to recite in unison. This models proper tajweed and makharij for accurate pronunciation.
Consolidation & Evaluation
After completely memorizing a juz (para) comprising of 20-22 pages, students spend 2-3 months solely revising it intensively through activities like group recitation, contests etc. to consolidate it in their memory before moving to the next juz.
Completion of Hifz Quran
It typically takes students 2-3 years to successfully memorize the entire Quran this way. After completion, they continue revision to retain it long-term. Students graduate as strong huffaz ready to lead prayers.
Parental Involvement
Parental support at home like listening to recitation and encouraging revision is also key for better memorization. Some schools conduct evening revision classes for parents.
In summary, hifz schools utilize a well-planned, successive technique focused on consistent revision and comprehension to help students solidify Quran memorization. Their structured curriculum, experienced teachers and immersive environment enables producing memorizers of the highest excellence.
