Arabic B 1 is the first of fourth intermediate-level classes in Arabic in the Open Studies Certificate programme. its essential course at the University of Strathclyde. This course aims the learner the ability to maintain language communication in the primary topic area, consistently express what they want, and improve their language performance. This will enable them to participate in the topics successfully, speaking their opinions in discussions and back them up with supporting details, and use appropriate expressions and linking techniques.

Learning Outcomes 

Listening: on completion of the class, you can expect to be able to:

• Comprehend a wide range of spoken Arabic at a normal speed, including news broadcasts, lectures, and discussions.
• Understand and respond to complex questions and instructions in various contexts.
• Discriminate between different Arabic dialects and accents, and adapt to regional variations.
• Identify the main ideas, supporting details, and implicit meanings in spoken Arabic texts.
• Recognize and interpret non-verbal cues and body language in Arabic communication.
• Engage in active listening and ask relevant questions to clarify information.

Reading: on completion of the class, you can expect to be able to:

• Read and comprehend a wide range of authentic Arabic texts, including news articles, short stories, and literary works.
• Analyze and interpret complex texts, identifying the main ideas, supporting arguments, and underlying themes.
• Recognize and apply various reading strategies, such as skimming, scanning, and close reading.
• Utilize reference materials such as dictionaries and online resources to enhance reading comprehension.
• Develop critical thinking skills by evaluating the credibility and bias of written texts.
• Engage in critical reading by questioning the author’s intent and analyzing the text’s underlying messages.

Oral: on completion of the class, you can expect to be able to:

• Engage in extended conversations on a variety of topics, including current events, social issues, and personal experiences.
• Express opinions and ideas clearly and persuasively, using appropriate language and rhetorical devices.
• Participate actively in group discussions and debates, contributing meaningful insights and challenging others’ perspectives.
• Handle complex social situations with confidence and cultural sensitivity.
• Negotiate and compromise effectively in various settings.
• Deliver presentations and speeches on familiar topics.

Written: on completion of the class, you can expect to be able to:

• Write well-structured essays and reports on a variety of topics, demonstrating coherence and cohesion.
• Use a wide range of vocabulary and grammar structures to express complex ideas and nuances.
• Write formal and informal letters, emails, and other correspondence with clarity and accuracy.
• Summarize and paraphrase written texts, capturing the main ideas and supporting details.
• Edit and proofread your writing to ensure accuracy and clarity.
• Adapt your writing style to suit different audiences and purposes.

Context: on completion of the class, you can expect to be able to:

• Engage in deeper cultural discussions about Arabic society, history, and current events.
• Analyze and interpret cultural nuances and subtleties in Arabic language and communication.
• Develop intercultural competence and sensitivity, enabling you to interact effectively with people from diverse cultural backgrounds.
• Challenge cultural stereotypes and promote intercultural understanding and respect.
• Appreciate the richness and diversity of Arabic culture, including its literature, art, music, and cuisine.
• Apply your cultural knowledge to real-world situations and problem-solving.

Teaching Programme

A communicative approach in line with that taken in undergraduate degree classes in Arabic at the University of Strathclyde will normally be employed throughout. The class content will include material from the prescribed text and a number of didacticised authentic sources in a variety of media. The grammar base of the class will include introduction to the verb system of Arabic. Communicative activities will include group and paired oral practice, note-taking and written responses using authentic material whenever possible.

Duration: 2 hours per week for 20 weeks.

Textbook(s)  

Al Minhaj Al Alami