Arabic is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. It is the language of the Qur'an, the Holy Book of Islam, and the second major international language. Arabic is the language of a rich and enduring intellectual, social, and cultural heritage.

Many aspects of Arabic culture influenced Western medieval cultures, making them grow, particularly in knowledge areas like science, philosophy, and mathematics. Arabic learning and Arabic knowledge, transmitted through several centuries, were imperative for the framing of Western culture.

The vibrant and rich heritage associated with the Arabic language is a huge draw for learners, with masses of history, centuries of tradition, flavourful food, and limitless famous landmarks. This rich language is meaningful, even beautiful to some, and is derived from its many layers of culture. Thus, culture must be integrated with the language in foreign language instruction and learning. Languages are vehicles through which their speakers code, maintain, and transform their cultures, and through which cultures are transmitted and sustained over time and place.

Course overview

You will be introduced to food, music, customs and history of Palestine and the Levant region along the way, learning about distinctions in the language in different parts of the Arabic-speaking world.

Topics covered include:

• Phonetical writing

• Introducing yourself

• Basic grammar for spoken language

• How to describe yourself, other people, and your environment

• Finding your way around, reading signs

• Levantine cuisine

• Etiquette

This course is for students at who have completed our 20-hour Absolute Beginner Course, or a similar Arabic programme. If you have never studied Arabic before you can sign up for Absolute Beginners. If you are not sure of your level, please email babelsblessing@gmail.com.