Arabic C 2 is the fourth of fourth intermediate-level classes in Arabic in the Open Studies Certificate programme. its essential course at the University of Strathclyde. This course is expected to be able to comprehend reading or listening without any effort or difficulty, as well as collect, edit, summarize, and re-explain information in a way that makes sense in the context and communicate clearly and spontaneously.

Learning Outcomes 

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

• Comprehend a wide range of spoken Arabic at native-speaker speed and fluency, including complex discussions, debates, and cultural programs.
• Discern subtle nuances in language, including sarcasm, irony, and humor.
• Identify and interpret implicit meanings, cultural references, and underlying motivations.
• Analyze and evaluate the speaker’s credibility, bias, and purpose.
• Engage actively in discussions with native speakers, contributing insightful comments and asking probing questions.
• Understand and respond to complex questions and instructions in various formal and informal contexts.
• Discriminate between different Arabic dialects and accents, adapting to regional variations seamlessly.

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

• Comprehend a wide range of complex Arabic texts with ease, including academic articles, literary works, and specialized texts.
• Analyze and interpret complex texts, identifying underlying themes, implicit meanings, and authorial intent.
• Evaluate the credibility and bias of sources, critically assessing the information presented.
• Engage in close reading to analyze language use, rhetorical devices, and stylistic choices.
• Utilize advanced reading strategies such as skimming, scanning, and annotating to efficiently extract information.
• Apply critical thinking skills to evaluate arguments, identify logical fallacies, and form informed opinions.
• Engage in scholarly discussions and debates, drawing on textual evidence to support claims.

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

• Engage in sophisticated and nuanced conversations on a wide range of topics, including current events, politics, and culture.
• Express complex ideas and opinions clearly, concisely, and persuasively.
• Participate actively in formal and informal discussions and debates, challenging and defending viewpoints.
• Negotiate effectively and find common ground in complex situations.
• Deliver polished presentations and speeches, adapting to different audiences and contexts.
• Use language creatively and expressively to convey emotions, humor, and cultural nuances.
• Interact confidently and effectively with native Arabic speakers in professional and social settings.

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

• Produce sophisticated and well-structured written texts such as essays, research papers, and reports.
• Utilize a wide range of advanced vocabulary and grammar to express complex ideas and nuances.
• Master various writing styles including formal, informal, academic, and creative writing.
• Summarize and paraphrase complex texts, capturing the essence of the original content.
• Edit and proofread written work with precision, ensuring accuracy and clarity.
• Adapt writing style and tone to suit different audiences and purposes.
• Engage in academic writing and research, including literature reviews and critical analysis.

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

• Engage in sophisticated discussions on various aspects of Arabic culture, history, and society.
• Analyze and interpret complex cultural phenomena, including literature, art, and film.
• Develop a deep understanding of the nuances of Arabic culture and its diverse regional variations.
• Challenge cultural stereotypes and promote intercultural understanding and respect.
• Apply cultural knowledge to real-world situations, such as business negotiations, diplomacy, and social interactions.
• Adapt to different cultural contexts and navigate intercultural challenges with ease.

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