CREDIT: One credit each (Level 4 one/weighted +.5)

GRADES: 9, 10, 11, 12

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS:

The level 1 course is designed for students who are interested in learning a language, yet have no background or familiarity with the Arabic language. The curriculum will encompass the alphabet, writing, speaking, and even learning about the Arabic culture.

In level 2, students continue to develop proficiency in all four language skills - listening, speaking, reading, and writing - with emphasis on the ability to communicate orally and in writing. They learn to function in real-life situations using more complex sentences and language structures. They read material on familiar topics and produce short writing samples. Students continue to explore as they study the themes of Home Life, Student Life, Leisure Time and Vacation/Travel. (Prerequisite: level 1 or equivalency test.)

In level 3, students continue to develop and refine their proficiency in all four language skills - with emphasis on the ability to interact orally and in writing. They communicate using more complex language structures on a variety of topics, moving from concrete to more abstract concepts. Students comprehend the main ideas of the authentic materials that they read and hear, and they are able to identify significant details when the topics are familiar. Students gain a deeper understanding of the world around them while studying Rights & Responsibilities, Future Plans & Choices, Teen Culture, Environment, and Humanities. (Prerequisite: level 2 or equivalency test.)

In level 4, students develop more sophisticated communication skills in all four areas - listening, speaking, reading and writing - with emphasis on the ability to interact orally and in writing. The authentic reading selections are emphasized at this level. Students communicate using more complex language structures and express
abstract ideas with reasonable fluency. Students are able to create and listen with understanding to reports and presentations. They are also able to describe, summarize and discuss selected upper level POS themes and topics. (Prerequisite: level 3 or equivalency test.)

CAREERS
The U.S. government has declared Arabic a critical language. Therefore, opportunities for Arabic speakers are readily available. According to statistics from the Department of Labor, roughly 25,000 jobs are expected to open up for interpreters (who focus on spoken language) and translators (who focus on written language), between 2010 and 2020. That represents 42% growth for the field and does not include the military, which is also recruiting ferociously for more people.

The military (specifically Army), city police departments, the CIA, the FBI, the State Department, and international relations firms view Arabic language as being in high demand. The State Department, NSA, Homeland Security, and military are currently seeking personnel competent in English and in the Arabic Language. In addition, private firms are seeking Arabic-speaking personnel for humanitarian efforts.

Arabic truly in an international language. It is the fifth most commonly spoken language in the world, and there are over 22 countries where Arabic is the official language. The Arab world is a region of rich cultural and historical importance. and it is also an area of strategic interest. The rediscovery of the Arab language and culture has put the Middle East and North American nations in the spotlight, and will allow Westerners to learn more about this fascinating and ever-changing region. Arab culture is ancient, beautiful, and extremely fun to explore! Yallah!