Postgraduate Module Descriptor

ARAM081: Advanced Arabic Language

This module descriptor refers to the 2021/2 academic year.

Module Content

Syllabus Plan

Whilst the module’s precise content may vary from year to year, it is envisaged that the syllabus will cover some or all of the following topics:

As regards the study abroad and work placement (one term, where possible):

1) Introduction to the possible study-abroad period and the work placement to be delivered by IAIS and employability colleagues towards the end of the third year of study in Exeter (prior to study abroad period in the Middle East). This will include a health and safety briefing specifically designed for students going on study abroad and work placements;

2) Preparation for, and support with, the work placement application procedure;

3) Preparation for, and support with, arrangements for the proposed period of study abroad at an accredited institution (e.g. University insurance paid by IAIS, accommodation details, study abroad briefing);

4) Actual Arabic language study at an accredited institution in the Middle East, where possible;

5) Actual or on-line work placement with a relevant NGO, media agency, or company in the Middle East that will be arranged through our IAIS network in association with specialized organisations

6) Careers and employability colleagues at the University of Exeter will provide advice and support. Work placement can take place within the main language-placement city, although other places and online options might be possible.

Travel abroad for study and work placement will be subject to the travel advice of the UK Foreign & Commonwealth Office. Where circumstances require cancellation of these activities, alternative provision will be made in Exeter.

As regards the study period in Exeter (one term):

1) Reading: You will tackle different types of texts, editorials, texts on history, current affairs, literature, etc.

2) Writing: You will be introduced to different styles of writing. You will further enhance your understanding of how to present a topic, a discussion and a conclusion.

3) Translation and interpreting: You will become familiar with a range of text types by translating them effectively (and in a timely manner) from Arabic into English and from English into Arabic. You will also use your knowledge and skills to practice interpreting in verbal language.

4) Speaking: You will further enhance your speaking capabilities by discussing topical issues in depth.

Learning and Teaching

This table provides an overview of how your hours of study for this module are allocated:

Scheduled Learning and Teaching Activities	Guided independent study	Placement / study abroad
66	84	150

...and this table provides a more detailed breakdown of the hours allocated to various study activities:

Category	Hours of study time	Description
Placement/study abroad	100	Lectures and practical classes at host institution in destination country in standard Arabic (written) and spoken Arabic. 8 contact hours per week (approx.). Where FCO advice leads to cancellation of study abroad, alternative provision will be made in Exeter or on line.
Placement/study abroad	50	Work placement: 2-3 weeks work usually at the conclusion of the language study period. Where FCO advice leads to cancellation of study abroad, alternative provision will be made in Exeter or on line.
Scheduled learning and teaching activity	44	11 weeks x 4 hours (in Exeter) Lectures and seminars on Arabic reading comprehension, translation and interpreting. Interactive class work on written texts consolidating the linguistic skills of reading, writing, and translating
Scheduled learning and teaching activity	22	11 weeks x 2 hours (in Exeter) Seminars, masterclasses and workshops
Guided independent study	84	Weekly homework assignments in reading, writing, translation, as well as oral presentations and projects (in Exeter).

Online Resources

This module has online resources available via ELE (the Exeter Learning Environment).

ELE – http://vle.exeter.ac.uk/