Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2005-2006 (archived)

Module ARAB2032: ARABIC LANGUAGE 2B AND YEAR ABROAD

Department: MODERN LANGUAGES AND CULTURES (ARABIC)

ARAB2032: ARABIC LANGUAGE 2B AND YEAR ABROAD

Type Tied Level 2 Credits 40 Availability Available in 2005/06 Module Cap None. Location Durham
Tied to R000

Prerequisites

  • Arabic Language 1B (ARAB1012) or equivalent

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • Arabic Language 2B (ARAB2002)

Aims

  • To consolidate students' understanding of the grammar and syntax of Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) acquired in Arabic 1B.
  • To develop additional fluency in the reading of xtended texts in MSA and to consolidate translation skills both into and out of Arabic.
  • To further develop students' ability to use all aspects of the language (reading, writing, speaking, listening) so that he/she us able to derive maximum benefit from the Year Abroad.
  • In respect of the Year Abroad, to further improve and expand linguistic skills, knolwdge of the culture of a country where the target language is spoken and to stimulate interecultural awareness.

Content

  • The module continues the syllabus used in Arabic Language 1B (ARAB1012). The main textbook used is Al-Kitaab fii Ta'allum al-Araiyya Part 2, supplemented by additional materials, including English-Arabic translation exercises and media taped materials (e.g. news broadcasts).

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • By the end of the module, the student should have acquired:
  • a sound knowledge of the essential grammar and syntax of MSA, and have developed his/her vocabulary to the point where he/she is able to cope without undue difficulty with extended texts in straightforward MSA;
  • increased knowledge of and the ability to observe, absorb and evaluate cultural differences.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • The student should be able to translate straightforward pieces of prose texts into and out of Arabic; to read and understand extended prose texts written in straightforward MSA; to understand straightforward spoken MSA (e.g. a news broadcast); and to communicate orally in MSA on straightforward topics.
Key Skills:
  • Enhanced oral, aural and written communication skills.
  • Development of presentational and interpersonal communication skills.
  • Enhanced experience of language learning techniques, enabling students to further their study of Arabic on their own initiative.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • Language classes enable the grammar and syntax of MSA to be explained in an interactive environment.
  • Language exercises enable the student to develop fluency and confidence in the language.
  • Regular class tests and homework ensure that progress can be carefully monitored through the year.
  • Tutorials provide an opportunity for practising oral and aural language skills and for the correction of errors.
  • End-of-year examinations provide a measure of the level achieved over the year as a whole.
  • Year Aborad assessmetnt consists of an essay to demonstrate: accuracy of language; appropriateness of language (register and idiom); range of language (lexis and structres); originaility or content (evidence of personal experience and response; sophistication of reflection and analysis; insight into the target language culture); quality of information in content (breadth and/or depth of information); structire and presentation.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lecture 88 4 per week 1 hour 88
Tutorial 22 1 per week 1 hour 22
Language Classes 22 1 per week 1 hour 22
Preparation and Reading 268
Total 400

Summative Assessment

Component: Year Abroad Essay Component Weighting: 50%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Essay 100%
Component: Examination Component Weighting: 50%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Written exam 3 hours 70%
Oral examination 15 minutes 15%
Aural examination 15 minutes 15%

Formative Assessment:

Regular class tests and written homework exercises. Active participation (with feedback) in all language classes.


Attendance at all activities marked with this symbol will be monitored. Students who fail to attend these activities, or to complete the summative or formative assessment specified above, will be subject to the procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University