he STARTALK Arabic Summer Academy provides students with an introduction to Modern Standard Arabic and Arab culture. It is designed for students who have never studied Arabic before and begins with an introduction to Arabic sounds and letters. The teaching and learning emphasizes the functional use of Arabic and communication in context through listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students acquire enough familiarity with the Arabic language and culture to interact with Arabic speakers at a basic level (Novice Mid to Intermediate Low according to the ACTFL guidelines). The curriculum is based on the methods of the Marhaba! high school Arabic curriculum. Students finish the course with greater curiosity and sensitivity towards the Arabic-speaking world through cultural encounters in classes, co-curricular activities and field trips. In addition to beginning Arabic for students with no prior knowledge of the language, we also offer levels of progressively advancing Arabic for students who have a background in the language or have graduated from previous summers. In these classes, students will increase their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills through songs, videos, and other culturally authentic materials. Additionally, these students take on a leadership role in the Academy, both in their own classes and through cross-level cultural club meetings. Students with prior knowledge of Arabic, either from growing up with the language or from other school programs, should contact the Director for placement at the proper level.

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