Intensive Arabic

5 units

Introduction to Modern Standard Arabic. This intensive course provides basic competence in the four language skills: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Authentic simple reading and listening materials from Arab newspapers, magazines and Arab satellite television are used. Students will also be exposed to basic phrases of Egyptian Colloquial Arabic, the most widely understood dialect in the Arab world. In addition, the course introduces general aspects of Arabic culture. The course is based on the communicative approach in language teaching and learning. It focuses on functional usage of the language and on communication in context. Note: students with some previous Arabic language background must take a placement examination.