ARABIC FOR BEGINNERS (ONLINE)

ARABIC FOR BEGINNERS (ONLINE)

This course introduces Arabic for learners with no prior experience, combining Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) with spoken varieties, primarily Levantine and Egyptian dialects. MSA is the formal version of Arabic used in news, literature, and official communication, while the dialects are used in everyday conversation across the Arab world.

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 help them engage in daily conversations and comprehend simple texts.

The aim of the course is to provide learners with a solid foundation in both formal and spoken Arabic, enabling them to communicate effectively at a beginner level. 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. In addition, students will gain insight into Arab and Islamic culture and history.

This course is ideal for anyone interested in learning Arabic for travel, work, or personal development. It also serves as a steppingstone for further studies, opening the door to the rich linguistic and cultural heritage of the Arab world.

The course is given in collaboration with Paideia – the European Institute for Jewish Studies in Sweden.

Course structure 

This Arabic course employs an interactive, participant-centered approach. Learners prepare independently at home, using the LINGCO website which is a LMS (Learning Management System), an online resource linked to the course book where digital exercises are provided and the teacher can follow the learners’ progress.

For every class hour estimate to work two hours at home.

Class time focuses on activating knowledge through pair work, group activities, conversation practice, and dictation exercises. The course encourages self-correction and peer assistance, minimizing lectures in favor of active language use and continuous practice.

Prior knowledge

The course is given in English.

No prior knowledge of Arabic is required for this course. It is designed for complete beginners and will start with the fundamentals of Modern Standard Arabic.

Participants with some existing knowledge of Arabic are welcome to join but they should be aware that the course content and pace is tailored to complete beginners.

To apply, you need basic computer skills and knowledge of how to use the digital platform Zoom. The school offers Zoom manuals and a training opportunity before the start of the course.

Course material

All course material is not included in the cost for this course and participants need purchase the course book on their own.

Course book:

• “Alif baa: introduction to Arabic letters and sounds”, 3rd edition. 

The book is available in both digital and printed version. Together with the printed version you get a code that gives you access to the website that accompanies the course. Participants are welcome to use either printed version and website or digital version and website.

Participants need to have access to the book for the first class. The digital version is recommended in order to facilitate delivery in time.

More information regarding the book and purchasing it is sent in the admission letter if you are accepted to the course. 

About the teacher 

Michael has been studying and researching Arabic for over 20 years, with a particular interest in the similarities and differences between Hebrew and Arabic. 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, giving him a strong foundation in Semitic languages. In Israel, Michael taught Hebrew as a second language at leading academic institutions. Recently, he relocated to Sweden with his family, where he now teaches Hebrew and Arabic, both online and on-site. He also delivers lectures on the history, culture, and evolution of the Arabic language, and the religion of Islam.

Photo: Canva.