LA1PA3-IWLP Arabic 3

Module Provider: Languages and Cultures
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer module
Pre-requisites: LA1PA2 IWLP Arabic 2
Non-modular pre-requisites: All IWLP Arabic codes LA1PA*
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded:
Current from: 2023/4

Module Convenor: Dr Younis Lahwej
Email: y.a.lahwej@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

This module aims to provide students who already have ability to read, write and understand Arabic script with the opportunity to gain confidence in the four language skills of speaking, listening, reading and writing. They will gain increased precision and accuracy in expressing themselves in, and understanding, oral and written Arabic. 

The course is aimed at students with an entry level of CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) A2.1/A2.2.  On successful completion of the course students will have achieved CEFR B1.1. 

This module is taught at level 4 of the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications.  Reading University allows students from any year to take this module. Students will identify and use relevant understanding, methods and skills to address problems that are well defined but complex and non- routine. In language learning this means acquiring knowledge of grammar and vocabulary, developing strategies for learning and practising the language in the four skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking, in order to communicate within defined situations while developing tools to enable students to respond to unexpected occurrences. Students will exercise autonomy and judgement by developing independent learning skills. They will gain understanding of different perspectives and cultural differences in approaching a variety of situations. 

Support is given and adjustments are made for students with disabilities. However, IWLP language modules are communicative in nature and students are required to work in small groups.  Also, students should be aware that spelling, grammar and sentence structure are assessed. In this respect the IWLP assessment is exempted from the University’s requirement to take specific learning difficulties into account when marking.  For queries, contact iwlp@reading.ac.uk

Aims:

This course aims to enable students to cope in a wide range of everyday situations in an Arabic-speaking country and in those they would typically meet while studying or working there. It aims to extend their basic awareness of intercultural principles and practice to develop strategies for coping with less common linguistic, social and cultural situations. 

Assessable learning outcomes:
At the end of the course students may expect to achieve competence in the use of the most important grammatical structures of the language for their level and a knowledge of the vocabulary which is required to read, write and talk about the everyday topics and situations covered in the course. Students may expect to be able to present themselves well and interact adequately with sympathetic native speakers.

Additional outcomes:

Students will be involved in regular group activities and role playing and will gain experience in oral presentations and joint activities. They will make progress through developing and improve language learning skills of self-study and application and will recognise and apply basic principles of intercultural awareness in everyday social interaction as well as sensitivity to a foreign culture. Also, students can use self-reflection and learning strategies to work independently, improve goal setting, maintaining the level of interest, motivation and wellbeing. 

They will be able to understand the main points of any standard written or spoken text dealing with familiar topics. 

Outline content:
Students will learn:-
- to discuss topics both personal and of wider interest;
- to express their opinions orally and in writing;
- to interact effectively with native speakers in a social and practical context;
- to extract information from a standard or written text.

Global context:

IWLP language modules provide students with opportunities for intercultural learning, increased intercultural awareness and an appreciation of diversity which enable learners to make connections between their immediate context and the global context.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The course provides a systematic approach to acquiring essential grammar structures in a communicative context. Teaching methods are based on interactive language development tasks, such as group work and role playing, and include the study of short texts, oral development work and listening comprehension exercises. Learning activities are supported by various media such as audio and digital resources. The module is taught as far as possible in the target language.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Final written exam (Reading and Writing) – 35% (2 hours).

The examination for this module will require a narrowly defined time window and is likely to be held in a dedicated exam venue.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Autumn Term Week 10– Project: Portfolio submission (pass/fail) (8 pieces of evidence)

Spring Term Week 3 – Project: Oral group discussion 10% (20 minutes)

Spring Term Week 5 –Project: written part 15% (500 words)

Spring Week 11 - In class test – Listening test = 15% (40 minutes)

Summer Week 2 - Oral exam = 25% (15 minutes)

Formative assessment methods:
In order to consolidate and develop their language learning, students are encouraged to complete regular tasks $£ in class and outside $£ on which feedback is provided.

Penalties for late submission:

Assessment requirements for a pass:
40% overall for UG students, 50% overall for PGT students.

Reassessment arrangements:

Re-sit in August/September examinations period on the basis of examination only (relative percentages: oral examination 40%, written paper 60%)

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1) Required text books: 

2) Specialist equipment or materials: 

3) Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear: 

4) Printing and binding: 

5) Computers and devices with a particular specification: 

6) Travel, accommodation and subsistence: 

Last updated: 30 March 2023