Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2024-2025

Module ARAB2002: Arabic Language 2B

Department: Modern Languages and Cultures (Arabic)

ARAB2002: Arabic Language 2B

Type Open Level 2 Credits 40 Availability Available in 2024/2025 Module Cap None. Location Durham

Prerequisites

  • Arabic Language 1 (ARAB1012) or equivalent

Corequisites

  • At least one additional level 2 module in Arabic Studies

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • None.

Aims

  • To consolidate students' understanding of the grammar and syntax of Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) acquired in Arabic 1.
  • To develop additional fluency in the reading of extended texts in MSA, and to consolidate translation skills both into and out of Arabic.
  • To prepare students for living abroad, including on the year abroad, in terms of language, practical knowledge and cultural competence.

Content

  • The module continues the syllabus used in Arabic Language 1 (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).
  • The teaching and resources in this module reflect a commitment to linguistic and cultural diversity. It positions the richness of the (language area)-speaking world at the core of its syllabus.

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.
  • 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.
  • 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.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours
Lectures 105 5 per week 1 hour 105
Tutorials 21 1 per week 1 hour 21
Language Lab 21 1 per week 1 hour 21
Student preparation and reading time associated with the contact hours listed above, formative and summative coursework, general background reading, revision for written examinations etc 253
SLAT Totals 400

Summative Assessment

Component: Written Assessment Component Weighting: 60%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Continuous assessment of written skills 20% No
Written Examination (in-person) 3 hours 80% Yes
Component: Oral Examination Component Weighting: 20%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Continuous assessment of oral skills 20% No
Oral Examination (in-person) 15 minutes 80% Yes
Component: Aural Examination Component Weighting: 20%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Continuous assessment of aural skills 20% No
Aural Examination 1 hour 80% 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