Arabic Courses

ARB 110. ELEMENTS OF ARABIC I (4)
An introduction to the Arabic alphabet, this initial course is designed to give students with no prior knowledge of Arabic a foundation in the language, with special emphasis on the development of vocabulary and basic conversational and reading skills. Four contact hours with the instructor. Prerequisite: placement.

ARB 120. ELEMENTS OF ARABIC II (4)
In the second semester, students develop communicative skills (listening, speaking, reading and writing) at an elementary level within the context of Arabic culture broadly defined. Four contact hours with the instructor. Prerequisite: placement or ARB 100 with a minimum grade of C-.

ARB 130. INTERMEDIATE ARABIC I (4) (GEN. ED. #2)
Building on the previous elementary work in Arabic, this course furthers the study of the vocabulary, grammar and syntax through intensive aural, reading and written practice. Discussions are grounded in contemporary Arabic culture. Four contact hours with the instructor. Prerequisite: placement or ARB 120 with a minimum grade of C-.

ARB 230. INTRO TO MODERN ARAB CULTURE: DISSENTING VOICES, LIBERATING VISIONS (3-4)       In a century of social and political upheaval, Arab writers, critics, visual artists, and filmmakers have produced a compelling body of work that challenges oppressive structures and traditions. In this introductory class, students will engage in a close, contextual reading of a wide array of cultural works produced by some of the most provocative voices from Egypt, Lebanon, Palestine, Syria, and Iraq. Students will examine the ways that gender, class, war, and colonialism inform the poetry, fiction, films, music, and art of the modern Arab world. Readings and discussions will be conducted in English. Prerequisites: None.