Arabic for Medievalists: Beginner - LFA00258L

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  • Department: Language and Linguistic Science
  • Credit value: 20 credits
  • Credit level: F
  • Academic year of delivery: 2024-25
    • See module specification for other years: 2023-24

Module summary

This module introduces complete beginners, or those with only a little experience, to the fundamentals of Arabic in order to assist their study of the global middle ages. The focus is on developing an ability to read Arabic texts, and therefore on reading and writing skills rather than conversation. It also includes a consideration of elements of Arabic culture, particularly those that relate to language. Careful attention is paid to grammar, history of the language, making use of dictionaries, and reading different types of calligraphy and handwriting styles.

Related modules

The module is open to students in stage 3 of their undergraduate programme from any department.

Module will run

Occurrence Teaching period
A Semester 1 2024-25

Module aims

The aim of the Arabic for Research: Beginner module is to introduce complete beginners, or those with only a little experience, to the fundamentals of Standard Arabic writing and reading skills, grammar, and to raise their awareness about related key cultural aspects.

Module learning outcomes

At the end of the module students should:

  • have a sound grasp of basic Arabic writing skills and basic rules in grammar.

  • be able to read simple documents with confidence and to attempt slightly more difficult ones with help.

  • be able to use the dictionary in search for information, and extract the information they want from documents which they may not be able to translate in full.

  • understand language-related aspects in Arab culture.

Indicative assessment

Task % of module mark
Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled) 100

Special assessment rules

None

Indicative reassessment

Task % of module mark
Closed/in-person Exam (Centrally scheduled) 100

Module feedback

There will be weekly exercises with feedback as well as formative assessments in weeks 6 and 9, the latter providing written feedback on progress. Exam results are given within 25 working days.

Indicative reading

Recommended Dictionary:

  • Oxford Essential Arabic Dictionary: English-Arabic/Arabic-English

Imran Alawiye and Sadiq Toma, Gateway to Arabic (Book 1).

Handouts designed by the tutor and available on the VLE.