Student enrollment in Arabic courses has grown faster than any other foreign language at colleges across the nation since 2001. Learning Modern Standard Arabic, the language of literature, media, and education in the Arabic world, can be an enriching cultural and linguistic experience for students or community members. There is also a growing demand for Arabic translators and interpreters across the nation. Elementary Arabic is intended for either complete beginners or those who speak Arabic but have not had formal training in Modern Standard Arabic.
Elementary Arabic (4 units)
Class hours: 64-72 lecture.
Transfer Credit: CSU; UC credit pending.
Introduction to the four basic language skills in functional modern Arabic – aural, oral,
reading, and writing. Students learn the basics of Arabic script and pronunciation while
building a foundational vocabulary. Arabic cultural norms, values, and customs are
explored and serve as a basis for additional skill-building practice. Fourteen hours of
supplemental instruction in a Success Center that supports this course is required for
reinforcement of language skills. Corresponds to the first year of high school Arabic.
