ULAR51010 - LEAP Arabic 1 (A1)

  • Credits: 20
  • Pre-requisite: This unit is suitable for those who have never studied Arabic before.
  • Co-requisiteIf you are studying a Modern Languages Degree, either single or joint honours, please refer to relevant guidance about eligibility for LEAP units on your programme structure.
  • Taught during: Both semesters (September to May).
  • Level of attainment: (A1) By the end of the course, students should be able to perform at Level A1 of the Common European Framework.
  • Timetable: Click here

Description

This course is for absolute beginners. It is designed for those who wish to attain a basic understanding of the Arabic language covering four skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing.

The course teaches MSA (Modern Standard Arabic). It aims to introduce students to the Arabic alphabet, the basics of language structure and the basics of Arabic grammar.

Students will also acquire limited vocabulary to be able to read simple texts and conduct basic everyday conversation in key areas of everyday communication. The course provides students with the solid basis for further language learning.

Learning outcomes

Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to: 

  • handle some of the basic grammatical structures of Arabic; 
  • understand and read some familiar and daily expressions used in common everyday situations and write very simple messages; 
  • communicate orally at a basic level in a limited number of common everyday situations; 
  • have some understanding and knowledge of ways of life in the Arab world and its culture.  

 By the end of the course, students should be able to perform at Level A1 of the Common European Framework.

Transferable skills

Pair and team work, focussed listening, informal presentations, language awareness, and cultural appreciation.

Teaching and learning methods

One three-hours or two 90 minutes seminars per week, delivered through blended learning which integrates on campus and on-line instruction as necessary.

This will also include online digital learning available via Blackboard and will be supplemented by extra online resources to aid students in their independent learning.

Teaching hours

69 hours (3 hours per week) including assessment time.

Independent study hours

140 hours (not including assessment time).

Assessment

All assessments are summative.

Non-credit students and members of the public need to be aware that written exams will not take place during lesson time.

Semester 1

  • Written exam; 30% weighting; held in university's semester 1 exam period in January

Semester 2

  • Listening exam; 10% weighting; held in week 11
  • Speaking exam; 30% weighting; held in week 12
  • Written exam; 30% weighting; held in university's semester 2 exam period in May/June

Dates to be confirmed.

Nature and timing of feedback

Feedback will include a combination of informal ongoing feedback resulting from class-based learning activities and formal written feedback given following summative assessments.

Convenor

Dr Orieb Masadeh-Tate

Taught by

TBC

Maximum entry 

23 per group

Set texts

Mastering Arabic 1, Jane Wightwick & Mahmoud Gaafar, Palgrave Macmillan; 3rd edition (20 Nov. 2014). ISBN: 978-1137380449.

Pathway

ULAR51020 LEAP Arabic 2 (A1/A2)