Arabic Courses
Arabic 100-level courses are elementary language courses that introduce students to the basic sound, writing, and case systems of Arabic. Students also learn to read, write, and converse on a number of basic themes related to their families and lives at college. Arabic 120 satisfies the Cultural Diversity requirement.
Arabic 200-level courses are intermediate courses that lead students to more advanced proficiency in reading, writing, and oral skills. Students acquire the grammar necessary for reading authentic Arabic texts and for writing essays. They learn to read, write and converse on a broad range of themes. Arabic 201 completes the language requirement and is prerequisite for Arabic 202. 200-level courses taught in translation require no knowledge of Arabic, nor do they presuppose familiarity with the methods of literary and cultural criticism.
Arabic 300-level courses are advanced-intermediate level language courses. Students register for independent studies in Arabic (395/396) after completing ARB 202.
Minor Requirements
Minor Requirements: A minor in Arabic requires 6 courses numbered above 102. The six courses must include 201 or 202 (or other language courses for students who place above the Intermediate level) and at least three courses in literature and advanced language chosen from the following: 295 (Studies in Arabic Culture); Contemporary Arabic Literature (321); Media Arabic (322); 395/396 (Independent Study); another specialized course in Contemporary Arabic Literature; and one course chosen from HIS 175, HIS 176, HIS 218, POL 241, REL 272, or other courses (including at times courses taught by visiting faculty) that deal with the history, society, and cultures of the Middle East. (In individual cases, the department may approve allowing a second course from that list to substitute for one of the advanced courses in Arabic.) With departmental approval, students may also count courses taken abroad toward the minor.
Concentration: students should note as well the possibility of a focus on the Middle East as part of an International Studies Concentration or of an Asian Studies Concentration.
Distribution Requirement: ARB 321, Contemporary Arabic Literature, satisfies the distribution requirement in literature.
Cultural Diversity Requirement: ARB 321 and ARB 322
Study Abroad: Various summer, semester and year-long programs are available to students who wish to study in the Arab world. The department highly encourages study abroad, and works toward developing host family stays in order to ensure the student’s full immersion in the language and culture while abroad. See department website for more links to recommended study abroad programs: www3.davidson.edu/cms/x37679.xml
101 Elementary Arabic I
201 Intermediate Arabic I
Intermediate Arabic 201, the fall semester of a year-long intensive intermediate course in Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), is designed for students who have had one year of Arabic at the college level. Authentic supplementary reading material is introduced, with a focus on popular stories filled with wise sayings known throughout the Arab world. Discussion and presentations are centered on this material, which exposes students to important cultural elements of the Arab world. The course is conducted entirely in Arabic. Attendance at two AT (drill) sessions each week is required. Prerequisite: Arabic 102 or placement. (Offered every Fall)
202 Intermediate Arabic II
Continuation of Intermediate Arabic I. Prerequisite: Arabic 201 or placement. (Offered every Spring)
295 Studies in Arabic Culture
Arabic 295, a one-semester course in Modern Standard Arabic (MSA), is designed for students who have had two years of college level Arabic courses or the equivalent. The course, which is conducted entirely in Arabic, enhances the students’ understanding of Arabic culture and grammar through video clips, film, proverbs, television serials, music, and literature. Discussion and presentations are centered on this material. Class meets for one hour, three times per week. (Fall 2009)
321 Contemporary Arabic Literature (see Part I for course description)
322 Media in the Arab World (see Part I for course description)
395/396 Independent Study for Advanced Students
Advanced study under the direction of the faculty member, who approves the topic, determines meeting times, and decides the means of evaluating the students’ work. Prerequisite: Permission of the instructor (Fall and Spring)
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