Arabic Language and Literature (MEAR)

This two-semester sequence of courses is a basic introduction to all aspects of the Arabic language through a comprehensive and integrated method. The focus is on language proficiency in all areas of the language including speaking, reading, and writing. The course also introduces students to aspects of Arabic culture and everyday life in the Middle East. MEAR 10001 is offered each fall semester and MEAR 10002 is offered each spring semester.

This two-semester sequence of courses is a basic introduction to all aspects of the Arabic language through a comprehensive and integrated method. The focus is on language proficiency in all areas of the language including speaking, reading, and writing. The course also introduces students to aspects of Arabic culture and everyday life in the Middle East. MEAR 10001 is offered each fall semester and MEAR 10002 is offered each spring semester.

Second semester elementary Arabic.

This second-year Arabic course builds on the previous two semesters. The emphasis is on speaking and writing for self-expression with continued study of the basic grammatical structures. Proficiency remains the focus through readings and conversations in the language. Students develop skill in the use of the Arabic dictionary.

This course is geared to consolidating skills gained in the previous three semesters while enhancing the ability to converse and conduct oneself in Arabic. Reading skills are enhanced by exposure to more sophisticated examples of literature. Original written expression is encouraged through the composition of short essays.

This course emphasizes language structure, including phonetics (the sounds of language), phonology (the sound systems of language), morphology and lexicon (structured meanings in words), morphemes (units of meaning), syntax, and semantics.

This third-year Arabic course emphasis is on developing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in interactive settings. Vocabulary building will be the focus of drills; we will cover basic vocabulary in various authentic uses of the language. Special attention will also be given to media Arabic. Basic Arabic grammar should be completed by the end of the year. We will continue with part 2 of the KITAAB sequence. Supplementary materials, mainly from Arabic media (BBC Arabic News, newspapers, magazines), will be provided. Tests, both oral and written, will cover the textbook materials, in addition to the basic grammar and the cumulative vocabulary.

This third-year Arabic course emphasis is on developing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills in interactive settings. Vocabulary building will be the focus of drills; we will cover basic vocabulary in various authentic uses of the language. Special attention will also be given to media Arabic. Basic Arabic grammar should be completed by the end of the year. We will continue with Part 2 of the KITAAB sequence. Supplementary materials, mainly from Arabic media (BBC Arabic News, newspapers, magazines), will be provided. Tests, both oral and written, will cover the textbook materials, in addition to the basic grammar and the cumulative vocabulary.

This course is intended to increase spoken Arabic proficiency and socio-cultural competence by focusing on the development and enhancement of intermediate skills in speaking and listening through the use of texts and multimedia materials in Modern Standard Arabic. It also takes into consideration dialectical diversity. Class time will be spent in conversation and discussions after students read chosen texts and prepare assignments on audio-visual materials outside of class.

In this special course designed for inquisitive international economics / Arabic majors, students will attend a number of lectures, panels, and seminars on campus during the semester, with a follow-up discussion for each led by either a visitor or a member of the economics or Arabic faculty. Before each session, students will be expected to complete a short reading assignment. At each follow-up session, the students will submit a 1-2 page summary and analysis of the talk, with a critical question for discussion. The goal is to encourage students to enrich their major experience by participating in the intellectual discussions that occur amongst ND and visiting scholars across the campus, distinguished alumni, and professionals in the field.

The goal of this course is to continue to develop a basic knowledge of the Classical/Qur'anic Arabic, with an emphasis on an overview of grammar and syntax, vocabulary acquisition, and serial readings of Islamic texts. We will read selections from Qur'an, Qur'anic exegeses, hadith (Prophetic tradition), and other related material, such as Islamic legal texts. We will learn how to use Arabic/Islamic bibliographical references (in print and online). The prerequisite for this class is a working knowledge of the Arabic alphabet. The instructor will assess your level before the class begins and make recommendations, as needed. The textbook, Alan Jones' Arabic through the Qur'an, commences with basic syntactic structures.

This course equips students with skills to understand and interpret classical Arabic texts-- Qur'an, Hadith, and other legal, theological, philosophical, mystical and literary texts. It also offers a foundational understanding of Islamic sources and guides students to proper venues for academic engagement with Islam. Level 1 Arabic is required.

This is an advanced Arabic language course designed to enhance and develop students' reading, speaking, and writing skills. The substantial component of this course comprises a close textual study and critical analysis of a variety of selected stories from "The Arabian Nights" designed to evoke aesthetic and intellectual discussions of Arabic folk literature.

Individual or small group study under the direction of a faculty member.