MR548: Levantine Dialect Arabic (4 units)
Martin Accad, Associate Professor of Islamics

Summer 2008, Beirut, Lebanon

DESCRIPTION: 

Levantine Arabic is the dialect of Arabic primarily spoken in Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, and Palestine. This course will take students from whatever level of Levantine Arabic they may be at (whether total beginner or higher), to one level higher, through the well-established program of ALPS. Language being the primary vehicle of cultural acquisition and communication, this course will contribute significantly to the student’s effectiveness in functioning within an Arab culture.

LEARNING OUTCOMES:

1. Become familiar with the realities of the Arabic language and dialects
2. Be able to communicate at a very basic level through day-to-day simple phrases in the Arabic language with people from an Arab culture
3. Acquire the desire to communicate more deeply with peoples of Arab cultures

COURSE FORMAT:

30-40 hours of classroom instruction; additional time spent in community practicing the language

REQUIRED READING: If you have previously read any of the required texts, please select an alternative text from the recommended reading list or a book approved by the instructor.

The Academy of Languages and Practical Skills has its own textbook series, which will be available at the school

ASSIGNMENTS:

1. Daily study in preparation for the next day’s class
2. Special language project or survey in streets, shops and university campuses of Beirut, practicing simple phrases and building relationships across culture (these projects will be designed and discussed with professor during the first week of the Lebanon Practicum)

PREREQUISITES: none

RELATIONSHIP TO CURRICULUM: Fulfills MACCS Practicum requirement when taken in conjunction with MI530

FINAL EXAM: no (occasional quizzes and tests in the classroom)

Note: This ECD is a reliable guide to the course design, but is subject to modification. Last Date Edited: 19 March 2008