Learn the sounds of Modern Standard Arabic to build the foundation for further study of the language. Learn to read and write the Arabic alphabet, individual words, and phrases. Engage in simple conversations involving greetings, introductions, colors, numbers, expressions and short sentences.
Syllabus, Graduate School, USDAObjective To introduce students to the Arabic alphabet and sound systems (Modern Standard Arabic), and to provide the student with the ability to engage in simple conversation.
Learning Outcome Upon successful completion of this course, the student will be able to read and write the Arabic alphabet and individual words; engage in simple conversations involving greetings/introduction of self; know general expressions and short phrases; and become familiar with the basic geography and culture of the Middle East.
Instruction Major topics covered in the course will include
a basic explanation of the origins, structures and countries Arabic is spoken in;
differentiation between classical, Modern Standard and various colloquial dialects;
phonology and alphabet;
one-way connectors;
short vowels;
separate singular personal pronouns;
separate pronouns;
subject and predicate;
noun gender;
indefinite articles;
demonstratives (this, here, there);
expressing possession;
attached pronouns;
relative 'noun' nisbah;
alif maqsura and hamza;
diacritical remarks;
prepositions and noun phrases (next to, over, under);
negation with 'laysa';
nominal sentence;
assimilating and non-assimilating sounds.
Vocabulary topics will include
greetings;
identifying oneself;
asking about well-being;
Arab states and capitals;
objects in the immediate environment and identifying objects in an educational environment.
Methods of instruction include lectures, discussions, classroom exercises, home-work assignments, role-plays, video and audio material, mid-term examination and final examination.
