2026/27 Undergraduate Module Catalogue

ARAB1230 Beginners Arabic

20 Credits Class Size: 60

Module manager: Prof Rasha Soliman
Email: R.K.Soliman@leeds.ac.uk

Taught: Semester 1 (Sep to Jan) View Timetable

Year running 2026/27

Mutually Exclusive

LANG1070 Egyptian Arabic beginners (A1)
LANG1080 Modern Standard Arabic beginners (A1)
LANG1081 Modern Standard Arabic post-beginners: language and identity
LANG1082 Modern Standard Arabic post-beginners: language and society
LANG1210 Quranic Arabic

Module replaces

ARAB1001 – Beginning Arabic 1

This module is not approved as a discovery module

Module summary

This module enables students with little or no prior knowledge of Arabic to develop their language skills up to a level approaching A1 of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR). It focusses on achieving basic skills in all four areas (listening, speaking, reading and writing) and developing confidence and a degree of accuracy in basic communication in a limited range of situations. This module is designed for students studying Arabic as part of their degree.

Objectives

This module is designed for students who study Arabic as part of their degree. It aims to:

- introduce students to the language and develop their ability to communicate at beginners' level
- develop a basic understanding of everyday vocabulary and expressions and a basic grasp of the relevant grammar for that level, as well as an understanding of the rules of pronunciation
- train students to apply these skills in basic written and spoken communication
- develop students’ interest in the cultures where the language is spoken

Learning outcomes

On successful completion of the module students will be able to:

1. Understand familiar words, phrases, and short texts in spoken form on everyday topics.
2. Recognize, read, and write basic elements of the target language script for common words and phrases.
3. Use basic vocabulary and grammatical structures to produce simple written messages.
4. Participate in short, predictable conversations and exchanges on familiar topics, with support where necessary.
5. Recognise key social norms and communication practices relevant to the target language.
6. Apply basic learning strategies and use digital resources to support independent study.

Teaching Methods

Delivery type Number Length hours Student hours
Lecture 10 2 20
Practical 20 2 40
Private study hours 140
Total Contact hours 60
Total hours (100hr per 10 credits) 200

Opportunities for Formative Feedback

Regular progress will be monitored through students’ engagement with formative activities set on Minerva or through a textbook ahead of each class. Students will receive formative feedback throughout the module to consolidate their learning, prepare for assessments, and encourage autonomous language development.

Methods of Assessment

Coursework
Assessment type Notes % of formal assessment
Coursework Portfolio 60
Total percentage (Assessment Coursework) 60

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Exams
Exam type Exam duration % of formal assessment
Practical Exam / OSCE 0.0 Hrs 15 Mins 40
Total percentage (Assessment Exams) 40

Normally resits will be assessed by the same methodology as the first attempt, unless otherwise stated

Reading List

Check the module area in Minerva for your reading list

Last updated: 30/04/2026

Errors, omissions, failed links etc should be notified to the Catalogue Team