Skip to main content
 

ARAB2002: Arabic Language 2B

Please ensure you check the module availability box for each module outline, as not all modules will run in each academic year. Each module description relates to the year indicated in the module availability box, and this may change from year to year, due to, for example: changing staff expertise, disciplinary developments, the requirements of external bodies and partners, and student feedback. Current modules are subject to change in light of the ongoing disruption caused by Covid-19.

Type Open
Level 2
Credits 40
Availability Available in 2024/2025
Module Cap None.
Location Durham
Department Modern Languages and Cultures (Arabic)

Prerequisites

  • Arabic Language 1 (ARAB1012) or equivalent

Corequisites

  • At least one additional level 2 module in Arabic Studies

Excluded Combinations 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

ActivityNumberFrequencyDurationTotalMonitored
Lectures1055 per week1 hour105Yes
Tutorials211 per week1 hour21Yes
Language Lab211 per week1 hour21Yes
Student preparation and reading time associated with the contact hours listed above, formative and summative coursework, general background reading, revision for written examinations etc253 
SLAT Totals400 

Summative Assessment

Component: Written AssessmentComponent Weighting: 60%
ElementLength / DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
Continuous assessment of written skills20No
Written Examination (in-person)3 hours80Yes
Component: Oral ExaminationComponent Weighting: 20%
ElementLength / DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
Continuous assessment of oral skills20No
Oral Examination (in-person)15 minutes80Yes
Component: Aural ExaminationComponent Weighting: 20%
ElementLength / DurationElement WeightingResit Opportunity
Continuous assessment of aural skills20No
Aural Examination1 hour80Yes

Formative Assessment

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

More information

If you have a question about Durham's modular degree programmes, please visit our FAQ webpages, Help page or our glossary of terms. If you have a question about modular programmes that is not covered by the FAQ, or a query about the on-line Undergraduate Module Handbook, please contact us.

Prospective Students: If you have a query about a specific module or degree programme, please Ask Us.

Current Students: Please contact your department.