Arabic, IB

AB INITIO

What do I need to know or be able to do before taking this course?

The ab initio programme is a foreign language learning programme designed to be studied over two years at subsidiary level by students who have no previous experience of learning Arabic as target language here.

The programme meets the needs of the following IB students:

  • Those who have had little or no opportunity for foreign language study in their earlier education and are therefore unable to fulfil IB diploma requirements for group 2
  • Those who are interested in learning a new, foreign language as part of their IB diploma, possibly in addition to language A2 or B
  • Those who are able to share their interests and opinions with other people who speak the language.
  • Those who would like to learn about countries where the language is spoken
  • Those who would like to add an international dimension to their choices of subjects which is something many employers and higher education providers look for
  • Those who would like to learn many skills which are useful in a wide range of careers, such as the ability to communicate clearly, being confident about speaking in the public and using problem solving strategies
  • Those who are hardworking as the course is demanding in terms of vocabulary and grammar

What will I learn on this course?

  • LISTENING: Understanding straightforward conversational and colloquial Arabic
  • SPEAKING: Conveying straightforward, factual information and responding appropriately in spontaneous discussion
  • READING: Understanding straightforward information, distinguishing between key points and supporting detail, identifying basic elements of genre, purpose and audience
  • WRITING: Conveying information and concepts clearly, organising key points and providing supporting detail, indicating personal attitudes completely

What kind of student is this course suitable for?

The successful IB student is self motivated and family supported who desires to challenge himself/herself intellectually and academically. He/she must be a competent reader and possesses conspicuous analytical and critical thinking skills. A certain level of intelligence and high scholarship are required for the course, but it is more important generally to have students with excellent study skills, diligence and perseverance. An IB programme applicant must be prepared to work hard, have good self-esteem, as well as possess a simple background about Arabic language and Arabic culture.

What can I do after I’ve completed the course?

People with language skills and knowledge are highly thought of in the modern world. They stand out as talented and successful people, with broad and exciting horizons. Taking Arabic Ab initio means you will be:

  • be able to study higher Arabic courses in reputable universities
  • add an extra dimension to your personal skills profile which will impress anyone who
  • reads your CV
  • be in a stronger position to get a job in a company with international links, or improve employability if you like to work abroad

How will my work be assessed?

The method of assessment used by IB is criterion-related. It is designed to measure the performance of candidates against the main objectives of the programme by using a combination of external and internal assessment methods as follows:

ARABIC AB INITIO

  • INTERNAL ASSESSMENT: 30%
  • Interactive oral activity: 15%
  • Individual oral: 15%
  • EXTERNAL ASSESSMENT: 70%
  • Terminal Examinations
  • Paper 1: Text handling and written response in target language – 40%
  • Paper 2: Two pieces of writing in the target language using a variety of registers – 30%

What skills can I develop by taking this course?

In addition to completing the IB requirements, the students should be able to communicate information and some basic ideas clearly and effectively, in a limited range of situations. Also, they can understand and use accurately the essential spoken and written forms of the language in a limited range of situations. Furthermore, they can understand and use a limited range of vocabulary in common usage and can use a register that is generally appropriate to the situation and finally they should be able to show awareness of Arabic culture.

What could I go on to do at the end of this course?

The IB was born of efforts to establish a common curriculum and university entry credential for students in many countries around the world. Following a course of studies leading to the award of IB Diploma makes students applying to American universities more competitive in relations to their peers. Students who earn IB Diploma may earn up to one year of advanced placement credit in American universities and colleges.