1. Language Proficiency

Working with other students in an immersion program allows your mind to grasp the language concepts. Teachers only speak in Arabic as they teach, allowing students to put regular lessons into context. It’s also easier to pick up the language by hearing it in everyday life. This also helps students hear the correct pronunciation of words as they’re spoken, which can help with better proficiency.

2. Better Cognitive Abilities

Students who learn new languages build their cognitive abilities in other areas. New languages keep the mind elastic, allowing students to learn and retain more. This can help build their problem-solving and thinking skills needed in other areas. Knowing more than one language also helps train the brain to focus on more than one task, just as it switches between languages when speaking.

3. Academic Abilities

Students who work in an immersive program may have an easier time with school and other projects. Learning a new language requires analytical thinking. These new skills allow students to think more clearly about concepts, which can aid them in learning English, math, and other subjects. By having a better capacity for learning, standardized testing may become more accessible for those who know a second language.

4. Cultural Awareness

As students learn the language and culture through an immersion program, they gain more empathy and affinity for the culture they’re studying. They can feel more connected with the places they’re learning about. This helps them if they decide to make the move into the business or academic world. They’ll be able to work with people and more easily understand their needs. Arab Academy provides the tools our students need to build their awareness of the various Arabic cultures.

5. Better Career Opportunities

Knowing and learning a language in an immersive environment can help build more career opportunities. Worldwide corporations look for employees who understand the languages and cultures of their clients. Being proficient in Arabic can allow you to find career opportunities in Arabic-speaking countries. Immersion programs help students prepare for environments where they need to either speak the language or interpret for others in a business setting. Because of this, those who know multiple languages have better opportunities to secure higher-paying jobs.

Use an Immersion Program To Learn Arabic

Arab Academy’s language learning program combines its lessons with the advantages of learning in an immersive environment. Learning in this capacity can help in other subjects, both in the academic and business worlds. If you’re thinking of learning Arabic and prefer an immersive experience, call us today, and we can help you get started.

The post 5 Benefits of an Arabic Language Immersion Program appeared first on Arab Academy.

Why did you choose to learn Arabic?

Because I want to communicate with the locals.

Why did you choose to learn at Arab Academy?

Because the immersion program is awesome.

How has learning Arabic Impacted your life?

It opens another world for me.

Has Arab Academy changed or impacted your life in any other way?  If so, how?

I set to know different ways that people live in another world.

How Arab Academy is unique compared to other language centers/ online courses you have tried?

All the teachers are very personal and nice.

What would you tell someone who is interested in learning Arabic, but hasn’t yet tried it out?

I would recommend Arab Academy to them.

The post July 2024 Student Spotlight appeared first on Arab Academy.

Why did you choose to learn Arabic?

For Middle Eastern studies at university.

Why did you choose to learn at Arab Academy?

It came highly recommended from my university.

How has learning Arabic Impacted your life?

I have learnt a lot more about Egyptian history and culture.

How Arab Academy is unique compared to other language centers/ online courses you have tried?

The teachers are all friendly and helpful.

What would you tell someone who is interested in learning Arabic, but hasn’t yet tried it out?

It’s hard but it’s a beautiful language.

The post May 2024 Student Spotlight appeared first on Arab Academy.

#1 The Arab World Consists of 22 Countries

The Arab culture covers more than 22 countries in the Middle East, North Africa, and the Arabian Peninsula. These countries have many different backgrounds and ethnicities, but the language and its history unite them. Arabic is the official language in 24 countries and is one of the most widely spoken languages in the world. Speaking Arabic is becoming an increasingly sought-after skill because of its rising prominence in international business. Arab Academy can help you learn the language and give you a view of Arab culture. We also offer an immersion program that allows you to practice your Arabic in Cairo, Egypt.

#2 Arabic Culture Values Art

Arabic culture values art and literature, both historical and modern. Their art forms include poetry, calligraphy, music, and dance. Architecture is another popular Arabic art form, which you can see in the Cathedral of Cordoba. A lot of Arabic art and culture developed alongside Islam and were influenced by its teachings. Many monographs, manuscripts, and newspapers in historical Arabic literature are concerned with Islam, but they also include information about contemporary Arab life. You can also see words from the Quran in many pieces of art, including on mosques and tapestries. Beyond their aesthetic purposes, art serves as a bridge between Arab communities by fostering a shared appreciation for beauty.

#3 Islam Helped Develop Arabic Culture

The Islamic faith helped develop Arabic culture. It plays a large role in Arab law and how people act and dress, which affects everyday life for many Arabs. The prophet Muhammad, spread Islam in the entire Arabian Peninsula when he came back to Mecca in A.D. 630. This could have also led to the spread Arabic language and culture. The religion teaches values like adhering to Islamic principles and respecting religious rituals.

#4 Family Matters

Family is thought to be a large part of Arabic culture. Arabs lived in tribal communities historically, showing that family and community have been a part of their culture for many years. Arab families are often tight-knit and can affect an individual’s social status, as honor and dignity come from family. There are specific roles for men and women in traditional Arabic families, but they often work together to instill their faith and culture in their children.

#5 The Arab World Values Tradition and Etiquette

The Arab world has traditions and etiquette that are specific to their culture. This includes using your right hand when eating and drinking, and avoiding pointing fingers. There are also specific dress standards, but these can vary from country to country. Many women and men wear Western-style clothing in Lebanon, but in some countries, they may wear headscarves or traditional clothing daily.

Learn the Arabic Language With Arab Academy

The Arabic language is a large part of Arabic culture and history. Learning Arabic can help you fully immerse yourself in Arabic culture. It can also bring many opportunities in business and travel. Arab Academy uses online courses that implement simple and comprehensive steps to help you become fluent in Arabic. Whether you want to learn the language for work, school, or personal enrichment, we can help you. Sign up to learn more today.

The post 5 Facts About the History of Arabic Culture appeared first on Arab Academy.

Learning Objectives

Arabic language courses for children often focus on basic communication skills and vocabulary acquisition, such as learning the Arabic alphabet. The primary objective is to enable children to understand and express themselves in Arabic in a simple, age-appropriate manner. These courses may prioritize spoken Arabic and everyday language, as children are less concerned with formal grammar and written expression.

Adult Arabic language courses may have broader learning objectives. They may be learning Arabic for academic, professional, or personal reasons. These courses often cover grammar, reading, writing, cultural nuances, and spoken language skills. The curriculum is more comprehensive and tailored to individual needs and goals.

Teaching Methods

Arabic language courses for children employ interactive and engaging teaching methods, often including games, songs, and activities designed to make learning fun. Teachers use simple language and colorful visuals to capture the attention of young learners.

Adult Arabic language courses are more structured and may incorporate traditional language learning methods. These courses may include textbooks, written assignments, and a more formal classroom setting. Adults are usually more focused on becoming proficient in the language, so their courses are structured to achieve that goal.

Duration and Intensity

Arabic language courses for children are often shorter and less intense, with shorter class durations and less homework. This approach is intended to maintain the child’s interest and enthusiasm for learning. Longer courses may put a strain on them as they have shorter attention spans than adults.

Adult courses are longer and more intensive, as adults are often more committed and motivated to reach a higher level of proficiency. These courses might include more homework, self-study, and practice outside the classroom.

Assessment and Evaluation

Assessments for children are typically designed to be less stressful and more encouraging. Teachers use positive reinforcement and focus on improvement rather than strict grading. Adult courses may include more rigorous assessments and grading systems, as adults are generally more accustomed to traditional educational standards. They may also need formal evaluation for their academic or professional goals.

Learn the Arabic Alphabet With Arab Academy

Arabic language courses for children and adults differ significantly in their objectives, teaching methods, curriculum complexity, duration, and assessment approaches. Understanding these distinctions helps when choosing the right Arabic language course for yourself or your child. Consider the learner’s age, goals, and individual needs when selecting a language course to get the most effective and enjoyable learning experience.

Regardless of age, learning Arabic can be a valuable and rewarding endeavor that provides learners the opportunity to learn about new cultures and communicate with people worldwide. Arab Academy offers quality language classes for both children and adults. Enroll with us today to learn the Arabic alphabet.

The post How Arabic Language Courses for Children and Adults Differ appeared first on Arab Academy.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Dialect

Before deciding which Arabic language dialect you should learn first, consider your personal goals and preferences. Some students may want to be able to read and understand the Quran, while some may want to watch Arabic media and be able to converse with locals while traveling. Both of these goals would call for a different dialect of Arabic. If you prefer a certain Arabic dialect, choosing to learn it first can help you stay motivated throughout the process. Having a passion for the language or dialect you’re learning can help you stay on track with your goals.

Dialects We Teach at Arab Academy

At Arab Academy, we teach two main Arabic dialects: Modern Standard Arabic (MSA) and Egyptian Colloquial Arabic. Modern Standard Arabic is the official language of 25 countries. Arabs generally use MSA for formal occasions, including government documents and news broadcasts. MSA can give you a good foundation of Arabic vocabulary and grammar. Modern Standard Arabic is also the Arabic language dialect of the Quran. For those whose primary goal is to read and understand the Quran or understand Islamic Arabic, starting with MSA can help build a solid foundation.

Egyptian Colloquial Arabic is one of the widely spoken dialects. It is the dialect that many Arabs use in their everyday lives. While it is the native dialect of Egypt, it is also spoken across multiple other countries. Egyptian Colloquial Arabic is also used in most Arabic entertainment, including movies and music. We recommend that beginners start by learning the Egyptian dialect if their main goal is to speak fluently with other Arabic speakers. It may also be the right dialect for you if you want to learn Arabic for entertainment or business reasons.

Learn the Arabic Language With Arab Academy

Learning either the Modern Standard Arabic or Egyptian Colloquial Arabic dialect can help you learn the Arabic language and understand its vocabulary and structure. The dialect you choose can vary based on your goals. Choose MSA if your goal is to learn Arabic to read and understand the Quran. MSA or Egyptian Colloquial Arabic are both great options if you want to travel to Arabic countries and be able to speak with locals in their language and dialect. Your course advisor can help you choose a dialect if you are having trouble deciding. Arab Academy offers a large online library of Arabic courses with around 300 lesson options. We also give our students the opportunity to speak 1-on-1 with native speakers to help students become conversational more quickly. Contact us for more information, or sign up today to start learning Arabic.

The post Which Arabic Dialect Should I Learn First appeared first on Arab Academy.

Arabic Alphabet Games

You can learn this 28-letter alphabet through entertaining and effective games. Explore online resources or apps that offer interactive games designed to teach the Arabic alphabet. From matching games to timed quizzes, these activities can help you learn to associate letters with their sounds and shapes. Games with a focus on writing each letter can help you learn how to connect one letter to the next more smoothly.

Alphabet Flash Cards

Create your own homemade flash cards or find pre-made ones. You can add simple images on the back of each card representing a word that starts with that specific letter. A visual association may help reinforce your memory and make the learning experience more enjoyable. Homemade flashcards are customized so you can select words or items that best meet your goals for learning Arabic.

Arabic Letter Tracing

Tracing each letter of the Arabic alphabet may help you write more fluidly, push proper cursive form, and help you learn how to write from right to left. Take the time to write the entire alphabet repeatedly, as proficiency often comes from repetition. After practicing each letter, try forming different words and then move on to sentences.

Alphabet Songs and Mnemonic Devices

Like other languages, the Arabic alphabet has a catchy song you can also sing to. You can look up the song on the internet and sing along. As you learn and memorize the song, you may be able to understand the letters and their placements more easily. Consider creating mnemonic devices or associations for each letter to aid your memory. These associations may make it easier to recall the letters when practicing reading or writing.

Arabic Puzzles

You can find or make your own puzzles that help you learn the alphabet in Arabic. Write an Arabic letter on each piece of the puzzle. Assemble the pieces to form various words, and as you progress, use them to build simple sentences. You can start with short, three-letter words and gradually build up to word puzzles of higher complexity. Puzzles can make learning more engaging and help reinforce the letter order and their connections. You can create your puzzle with specific letters, words, or phrases that you are struggling with to further increase your memorization and meet your goals.

Learning Arabic With Arab Academy

At Arab Academy, we help teach kids, teens, and adults of all ages how to speak Arabic. Whether you are a beginning or an advanced student, we can provide you with valuable tools to help you reach your goals. We often use pictures and animations to help you understand our material, including the alphabet and its different written forms. Contact us today to learn more about our online Arabic courses.

The post Fun Ways To Learn the Arabic Alphabet appeared first on Arab Academy.

This month, Arab Academy is featuring Wael Basille from France. Wael joined our classroom program in Cairo for 4 weeks. Read on to hear about his experience learning Arabic.

Why did you choose to learn Arabic?

Family reasons and interest in the Arab and Islamic culture.

Why did you choose to learn at Arab Academy?

Good comments on TripAdvisor and Google.

How has learning Arabic Impacted Your life?

It definitely motivated me to dig deeper into the Arabic language and culture.

How Arab Academy is unique compared to other language centers/ online courses you have tried?

I’ve only had experience in language classes with Arab World Institute in Paris and the courses were clearly better at Arab Academy. The teachers are more enthusiastic and motivating here.

The post November 2022 Student Spotlight appeared first on Arab Academy.

Our MSA Courses

Arab Academy offers leading online programs to help you learn Arabic effortlessly. We also have in-person classes, which are perfect if you live in Egypt. Our courses are customized to help you learn quickly. We have MSA courses for adults, teens (middle/high school), and children. To make learning simple, we divide our courses into familiar sections. You will encounter standard modules, including Arabic 100-103, 201-203, and 301-303.

Each module targets different learners in their progression to mastering the Arabic language. Some of our students come with a background in Arabic, while others start with no past knowledge. By the end of module 303, you should have complete mastery of the Arabic language. We recommend continued reading and practice, which are needed when learning any language.

Here is an overview of our different courses and what they offer:

1.    Modules 100 to 103

Arabic 100 is the starting point for anyone without past knowledge of the language. Also known as Arabic for beginners, it introduces the Arabic alphabet, sound system, script, pronunciation, and letter writing. Arabic 101 and 102 are for students who have known the alphabet but have little to no further knowledge. The courses involve learning how to communicate with native speakers about daily life situations.

You can learn how to order food, ask for directions, shop and ask for prices, and more. Once you are familiar with the daily life situations, you will begin Arabic 103, which revolves around communication about professional topics. The course aims at helping you bridge the gap between the beginner and intermediate levels. By the end of the course, you will know how to communicate about daily life situations, complete biographies, and describe various aspects of life.

2.    Module 201 to 203

Arabic 201 to 203 are courses designed for those at the intermediate level of understanding of the Arabic language. The course helps you enhance your ability to understand newspaper articles from different parts of the Arabian world. Arabic 201 reinforces linguistic skills at the reception and production levels by addressing popular subjects. By the end of the modules, you should be able to communicate with educated Arabs concerning various professional topics.

With this course, you can comfortably speak about society, healthcare, traditional arts, accommodation, and family. Arabic 202 focuses on health, Arab markets, humanity issues, marriage, disease, music, and more. We also provide Arabic 203, which examines newspapers about education, economic problems, heritage, international issues, and other topics. At this stage, you can become an intermediate high-level learner, able to communicate with any educated Arabic speaker.

3.    Module 301 to 303

The Arabic modules 301 to 303 are advanced courses we offer for students learning Modern Standard Arabic. The learning examines diverse professional topics, complex sentence structures, and word linking. Arabic 301 covers Arab medicine, the science of economics, the environment, Arab authors, and international politics.
We also have Arabic 302, which covers culture, heritage, sports, Egyptian characters, religion, and science. By the end of the module, you should have no problem comprehending professional text and complex structures used in modern publications. Arabic 303 is the most advanced stage in our MSA course. We examine newspaper articles about negligence, struggle and terrorism, human rights, technology, and environmental issues.

MSA for Children, Teens & Adults

We offer Modern Standard Arabic courses at Arabic Academy for anyone wanting to learn the Arabic language. Our classes are grouped into three main categories: children, teens, and adults. MSA courses for adults target those looking to learn the standard language for work and social interactions. We have flexible schedules and online classes you can attend from anywhere. The courses cover diverse topics that will take you from novice to advanced.

Our teen courses focus on social, school, community, and student life. We also cover leisure time, teen culture, historical/current events, and home life. Arab Academy also features courses for children. Helping children learn Arabic from a younger age gives them the best chance of mastering the language. We have competent programs customized to your needs. Our goal is to help you learn the Arabic language conveniently.

Learning the Arabic Alphabet

Learning to speak/write the Arabic language starts with mastering the alphabet. The Arabic alphabet comprises 29 letters written from right to left in a cursive style. Mastering the alphabet gives you the foundation to understand words, linking, sentences, and publications.

At Arab Academy, we offer competitive programs to help anyone at any stage. Whether you have no background in the language or have the basics locked down, our courses can advance your knowledge. Enrolling with our school takes you through an exciting journey to learn how to speak Arabic for work, school, or personal enrichment.

The post Modern Standard Arabic Courses We Offer appeared first on Arab Academy.

Colloquial Arabic Vs. MSA

Native Arabic speakers around the world use colloquial Arabic in their everyday lives. Colloquial Arabic is subject to regional variations and is affected by geographical location. In countries like Egypt, you’ll find different dialects everywhere you go. Arabic speakers from other regions communicate in their local dialects, but many areas are exposed to different variations. Egyptian colloquial Arabic is comprehensible for most Arabic speakers worldwide.

At Arab Academy, we offer courses on Egyptian colloquial Arabic because it provides an easy way to communicate with native speakers. Egyptian colloquial Arabic is the mainstream dialect used in movies, films, documentaries, and popular TV programs. Many speakers throughout the Arabic community are exposed to the dialect.

MSA (Modern Standard Arabic) is the uniform Arabic language in most Arabic-speaking countries. The language directly results from modern Arabic and refers to the standardized version. MSA is the type of Arabic you’ll find in Arabic language schools, universities, audiovisuals, written media, and formal contexts. The language is used in writing, speeches, and radio broadcasts. Although the style is different, MSA retains the same morphology and syntax.

At Arab Academy, we teach both colloquial Arabic and MSA. We recommend learning the modern standard Arabic if you have no background or previous knowledge of Arabic. MSA can help you study different colloquial Arabic. Once you know MSA, you’ll be able to communicate in Arabic-speaking countries effectively.

Which Colloquial Arabic Should I Learn?

Learning the modern standard Arabic is beneficial if you plan to work in Arabic-speaking countries. For effective communication with the locals, you should practice colloquial Arabic too. Many Arabic speakers don’t speak the formal version in day-to-day interactions. Colloquial Arabic varies from country to country, and you might find different dialects within the same country. We recommend learning the most popularly spoken colloquial dialect, Egyptian.

The Arabic dialects are widespread throughout the Arab world. Many Arabic speakers have no problem comprehending the Egyptian colloquial dialects because they’re used far beyond Egypt. To fully experience the language and culture, you will need to understand the colloquial dialects.

The Egyptian colloquial dialect is one of many Arabic dialects used throughout the Arab world. Other popular colloquial languages include Gulf, Hessaniya, Hejazi, Iraqi, Levantine, Nandi, North African, and Yemeni. You’ll also find variations between counties, so Morrocan Arabic will sound different from Lebanese Arabic, which draws from French. Some dialects differ significantly from MSA and classic Arabic because of multiculturalism and neighboring countries.

Why Should I Learn Colloquial Arabic?

Modern Standard Arabic is the ideal standard if you’re interested in becoming proficient in Arabic. MSA is used in formal academic, diplomatic, and media settings. The locals speak colloquial dialects. If you plan to immerse yourself in the communities in Arabic-speaking countries, you need to learn the colloquial dialects. Here are two reasons why you should learn colloquial Arabic:

1.    Communicate Effectively

Learning colloquial Arabic allows you to communicate more effectively with the locals. Even if you know the modern standard Arabic, you’ll be communicating with residents who speak colloquial dialects. Colloquial Arabic can make it easier to understand the local population if you plan to work or live in Arabic-speaking countries.

2.   Assimilating Into New Cultures

Learning colloquial Arabic allows you to stay current in your spoken ability. You can communicate fluently with people without dealing with confusion. Colloquial Arabic helps you understand the culture better as local literature, music, and everyday conversations use colloquial dialects. MSA is mostly spoken or used in formal settings.

Where to Learn Colloquial Arabic Language

Arabic is among the most spoken languages, and you can learn it online or in person. When learning colloquial Arabic, we recommend dialects closer to MSA and classic Arabic. Learning in countries at the heart of the Arabic world gives you the best chance of mastering colloquial dialects. You should consider taking MSA classes along with colloquial Arabic because the standard version is comprehensible by native speakers in many countries.

At Arab Academy, we offer different courses for MSA, classical and colloquial Egyptian Arabic. We’ll take you on an exciting journey as you learn to speak Arabic. You can enroll in our online classes and leverage our rich resources to fast-track your learning process. We have classrooms at our headquarters in Cairo, Egypt, so you can attend Arabic classes while immersing in the local communities. Contact us today at Arab Academy to get started learning colloquial Arabic through our programs.

The post What Is Colloquial Arabic? appeared first on Arab Academy.