Course information
Contact
This course introduces Arabic for learners with no prior experience, combining Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) with spoken varieties, primarily Levantine and Egyptian dialects. The course develops basic skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, and introduces key elements of the Arabic alphabet. Participants will learn essential vocabulary and phrases to engage in daily conversations and comprehend simple texts.
By the end of the course, participants will be able to greet people, introduce themselves, ask and answer simple questions, and handle basic interactions in Arabic-speaking contexts. Participants will also gain insight into Arab and Islamic culture and history.
Course Structure
In the course an Interactive, participant-centered approach is used. Class time focuses on pair work, group activities, conversation practice, and dictation exercises.
Home preparation via LINGCO, an online learning platform linked to the course book where digital exercises are provided and the teacher can follow learners’ progress, is an important part of the course structure. The course encourages self-correction and peer assistance, minimizing lectures in favor of active language use.
Participants should estimate 2-4 hours per week for working at home with exercises in the course book and practicing on the LINGCO platform.
Prior Knowledge
The course is given in English.
No prior knowledge of Arabic is required. Designed for complete beginners. Participants with some existing knowledge of Arabic are welcome but should be aware that the pace is tailored to beginners.
Course Material
All course material is not included in the cost for this course. Participants need to buy access to the LINGCO platform that accompanies the book on their own. The printed book is available to borrow as a class set during the term.
Course book:
- Alif baa: introduction to Arabic letters and sounds, 3rd edition.
About the Teacher
Michael Kisliuk has been studying and researching Arabic and Hebrew for over 25 years, with a particular interest in the similarities and differences between the two languages. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Islamic and Middle Eastern Studies and a Master’s degree in Hebrew Language from the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. In Israel, Michael taught Hebrew as a second language at leading academic institutions. He relocated to Sweden with his family and now teaches Hebrew and Arabic, both online and on-site at Paideia Folkhögskola. He also delivers lectures on the history, culture, and evolution of the Arabic language and the religion of Islam.