Arabic Sounds and Letters: A Programmed Course Text Book

This book includes twenty units aimed at introducing the Arabic sound and writing system to beginning students in the most economical and effective method. Part One consists of units which introduce the new sounds and letters to be taught and thereafter focus through pronunciation, reading, and writing exercises on solidifying their recognition with the students. Part Two contains fifteen brief exchanges and lists of commonly used vocabulary (greetings, introductions, polite requests, invitations, telling time, foods, drinks, professions, family members, clothes).

The primary purpose of including basic communicative practice and vocabularly lists is to create a climate for enjoyable and successful learning while students are learning Arabic sounds and letters. The language functions and expressions needed for each function are presented in both transcription and Arabic for a reference guide outside of class. Students are instructed to rely on English transcription until the entire system of Arabic sounds and letters is completed. At the end of the book, students will be ready to read in Arabic all these materials and the additional situational dialogues based on them and to act them out in class.

The teacher's manual includes a suggested methodology to guide students and teachers while using the material and to re-inforce correct pronunciation of the new sounds and words in each lesson.

Raji M. Rammuny is Professor of Arabic Language and Linguistics, Department of Near Eastern Studies, University of Michigan.