Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Postgraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2017-2018 (archived)

Module ARAB20240: INTENSIVE ARABIC

Department: Modern Languages and Cultures (Arabic)

ARAB20240: INTENSIVE ARABIC

Type Open Level 2 Credits 40 Availability Available in 2017/18 Module Cap None.
Tied to

Prerequisites

  • Arabic Language 1B (ARAB1012) or equivalent

Corequisites

  • None.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

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 extended texts in MSA, and to consolidate translation skills both into and out of Arabic

Content

  • The module continues the syllabus used in Arabic Language 1B (ARAB1012). The main textbook used is Al-Kitaab fii Ta'allum al-Arabiyya 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 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 MSA; and to communicate orally in MSA on a variety of topics.
Key Skills:
  • Enhanced oral 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.
  • Ability to present information and/or construct an argument effectively in the target language.

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.
  • Classes 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.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Language Classes 21 6 per week 1 hour 126
Preparation and Reading 274
Total 400

Summative Assessment

Component: Oral Examination Component Weighting: 30%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Oral Examination 15 minutes 100% Yes
Component: Written Examination Component Weighting: 70%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Written Examination 3 hours 100% Yes

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