Arabic, Program of African and Asian Languages: WCAS

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Arabic

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African and Asian Languages
AAL 105 - 1,2,3 - 20/21/22/23: Arabic I

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This is the first segment of a year-long elementary or introductory course. Students enrolling in the course should plan to continue for at least one full academic year (3 quarters). The second year of Arabic is strongly recommended to those students desiring to acquire effective use of the language. (Students should note that one year of Arabic does not fulfill the CAS foreign language requirement.) The main focus of this course is Modern Standard Arabic, which is used in written and formal spoken contexts throughout the Arab World. In order to study the language in connection with its natural contexts of use, some exposure to Egyptian and other spoken varieties will be included.

PREREQUISITES: None

TEACHING METHOD: Class is devoted to learning the script and sounds of Modern Standard Arabic and basic communication and reading skills. Students are required to use audio materials in the Multi-Media Language Center (MMLC), Room 48 Kresge Hall, tel. 491-3101. Audio tapes can be checked out for use at home. (The first book in the course textbook series also comes with audio CDs). Students should be prepared to devote additional time to daily homework.

EVALUATION METHOD: Final grades for the course will be based on:homework, quizzes, mid-term exam, and final exam.

READINGS: Alif Baa, Brustad et.al.; Al-Kitaab Pt. 1, Brustad et.al.

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African and Asian Languages
AAL 106 - 1,2,3 - 20/21: Arabic II

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course, which is a continuation of Arabic I, deals with more sophisticated yet essential topics of daily and literary use of the Arabic language. The emphasis of this course will be on expanding student vocabulary and improving reading and writing skills for a variety of practical purposes. In addition to the textbook there will be other selections for outside reading and use of audio-visual materials. One key component of this additional material will be Arabic newspaper texts dealing with current events.

PREREQUISITES: Arabic 105-1,2,3 or equivalent determined through a placement exam.

TEACHING METHOD: Class time is devoted to conversation, reading, translation and structured exercise. Students are required to use assigned audio-visual materials available in the Multi-Media Language Center (MMLC). Students are encouraged to participate actively in extracurricular cultural activities in support of their language acquisition.

EVALUATION METHOD: Final grade for the course will be based on: homework, quizzes, mid-term exam and final exam..

READINGS: Brustad et al., Al-Kitaab, Part I; Hans Wehr, A Dictionary of Modern Written Arabic
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African and Asian Languages
AAL 207 - 1,2,3 - 20: Arabic III

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This is a high intermediate level course in Modern Standard Arabic. Our goal is to enhance the student's ability to read, understand and discuss Arabic writings utilizing a variety of newspaper, magazine and journal articles, documents, short stories and other materials of interest to the students and relevant to their field of study. Special emphasis is placed on developing reading and writing skills. Remedial work on grammar as well as fluency building will be the focus in various stages of this class.

PREREQUISITES: Arabic II or equivalent for the first segment (Fall quarter), or consent of the Instructor.

TEACHING METHOD: The class will meet twice a week to discuss assigned and new materials.

EVALUATION METHOD: Grades will be based on class participation including evaluation on periodic quizzes and/or homework assignments, and individual progress in comprehending textual material.

READING: Brustad et al., Al-Kitaab Part II, and supplemental materials provided by the instructor.

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African and Asian Languages
AAL 308 - 1/2/3 - 20: Arabic IV

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African and Asian Languages
AAL 207 - 1,2,3 - 20: Arabic V

COURSE DESCRIPTION:
Fall Quarter (AAL 309 – 1: Arabic Literature in Arabic: Modern Prose)
This course introduces students to modern Arabic literature while continuing to strengthen their language skills, through work with samples of modern Arabic prose. Selections cover short story and novel genres.

Winter Quarter (AAL 309 – 2: Arabic Literature in Arabic: Classical Texts)
This course introduces students to classical Arabic literature while continuing to strengthen their skills, through samples of adab and classical branches of learning, gaining familiarity with masters of these genres.

Spring Quarter (AAL 309-3: Arabic Literature in Arabic: Poetry)
This course introduces students to classical and modern Arabic poetry, including poets from the Umayyad period, the Abbasid period, and the modern period. Selection include both traditional meter and “free” verse.