Modern Standard Arabic - Express course

Applications for 2024 courses starting in January are now CLOSED.

These two courses aim to develop students' reading, writing, speaking and listening skills and cover a variety of personal, social, cultural, and political topics. The course tutor will set assignments during the term and provide feedback and assessment on each student's progress. (See below for further details.) The courses follow a largely communicative approach to learning the Arabic language and culture, whereby students are exposed to the structure and vocabulary through texts, audio-visual material and conversation, however instruction on grammatical topics will be regularly incorporated in order to deliver a comprehensive understanding of the language at each level. Students will also be introduced to various cultural elements relating to the Arab world, including food, dress, festivals, traditions, etiquette, and other cultural practices.

Levels: The course comprises two-hour weekly classes spread over two 10-week terms: Term 1 (Jan-April 2024), and Term 2 (April-June 2024) focusing on beginner levels (Complete Beginner and Elementary). The first term will focus largely on understanding the structure and use of the language, whereas the second term will concentrate primarily on implementing the vocabulary and grammar through an array of speaking and listening activities.

If you are applying for the Elementary Course, you will be asked to take a Placement Test to assist the Course Tutor in assessing language abilities. (See bottom of the page for details.)

Cost: £390 per course (i.e. two terms, 40 hour course). 

Tutor: Mrs Sara Youssef

Course Timings: Please note all timings given below are subject to change, applicants will be informed of any proposed changes before the start of the term. If you have any questions about course timings please contact the Academic Office on msa@oxcis.ac.uk

Course Location: Classes will take place at the Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies building on Marston Road OX3 0EE.

Level 1a – Complete beginners

Course description This course is designed for students who have no, or very little, previous knowledge or exposure to the Arabic language. In the first term, students will be taught how to read, write and accurately pronounce the Arabic script. The second term will cover the foundations of forming basic sentences in Arabic. The course will cover topics including: greetings and introductions, describing people and objects, ordering at a restaurant, friends and family, work and the workplace, and travelling. By the end of the second term students should have reached Level A1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

Course books: Alif Baa [Georgetown University Press, ISBN: 9781589016323] 

Timings: Mondays 4.00pm - 6.00pm

START DATE: Monday 8 January 2024

Level Arabic 1b – Elementary

Course description This course is designed for beginner students who have little, or no knowledge of Arabic grammar or conversation but who can write and read the script (without comprehension). The first term will cover the foundations of forming basic sentences in Arabic. Term 2 will build on these skills and will introduce students to more complex ways of talking about themselves and other subjects. It will also introduce students to using an Arabic root dictionary. The course will cover topics including: greetings and introductions, describing people and objects, ordering at a restaurant, friends and family, work and the workplace, and travelling, talking about the past and present. By the end of the second term students should have reached Level A1+ of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages.

Course books: Arabic for Life [Yale University Press, ISBN: 9780300141313]

Timings: Tuesdays 6.00pm - 8.00pm

START DATE: Tuesdays 9 January 2024

Please note that these courses will run with a minimum class size of four.

TO REGISTER: Registration has now closed but will open again in October 2023 for 2024 entry.

TO PAY: You will be invited to pay by bank transfer once the Course Tutor has confirmed your acceptance to your chosen course level. You will normally be expected to make full payment before your first lesson. For those joining an Arabic class for the first time with us you are entitled to pay the full amount after your first lesson (but before your second lesson) so you can make sure the course is right for you. In the unlikely event that you decide not to continue after the first lesson there is no charge. Bank transfers should be made at least one working day before the first or second lesson (whichever is applicable as indicated above). Alternatively, by prior arrangement, you may make payment by credit/debit card (Visa and MasterCard) in the 30 mins before the start of the first lesson by which the payment is due.

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Students applying for Level 1b (Elementary) will be sent a Placement Test (including audio file) to assist the course tutor in assessing language abilities. Course places are limited. Some arrangements may be subject to change. Students will be informed of any changes before the start of the term. For all enquiries, please contact the Academic Office.

Academic Office
Oxford Centre for Islamic Studies
Marston Road
Oxford OX3 0EE

Tel: +44 (0) 1865 618543, 618500

Email: msa@oxcis.ac.uk