From Reading to Writing, Volume 1: An Intermediate to Advanced Course for Arabic Heritage Learners

A new textbook called "From Reading to Writing, Volume 1" is designed to help intermediate and advanced level Arabic students develop their reading and writing skills. The book uses authentic texts and engaging tasks to teach language skills and connect learners to Arab culture and society. The authors have developed the content with students over a decade and emphasize the interactive nature of language acquisition. The textbook is suitable for foreign-language learners of Arabic and native Arabic speakers enrolled in Arab universities.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 418 pages
Publication date: 15 August 2023
Publisher: American University in Cairo Press

From Reading to Writing, Volume 1 is a comprehensive textbook designed for students of Arabic as a heritage language at intermediate and advanced levels. The primary goal of this text is to enhance learners' basic language skills, particularly in reading and writing. While heritage learners may possess conversational skills in colloquial Arabic due to exposure to the spoken language at home or in their country of residence, they often face challenges in reading and writing Modern Standard Arabic. To address this, the book employs authentic texts that reflect the realities of the language, accompanied by a variety of tasks to facilitate language acquisition.

The authors of this textbook have developed the course content over a decade, with a strong emphasis on the interactive nature of language learning. The tasks included in the book are designed to engage students in a range of activities, including prereading and intensive reading exercises, comprehension questions, writing, listening, and grammar exercises, as well as vocabulary building. Additionally, higher-order questions are incorporated to promote critical thinking skills.

One of the unique features of this textbook is its focus on group work. The majority of the writing and listening tasks are designed to encourage students to collaborate and engage in the learning process. This approach not only promotes teamwork but also allows students to benefit from each other's perspectives and insights.

From Reading to Writing, Volume 1 is also suitable for self-study, making it an invaluable resource for learners who wish to advance their Arabic language skills independently. The book is well-organized, with clear explanations and examples that make it easy to follow. Moreover, the inclusion of cultural notes and references provides learners with a deeper understanding of Arab culture and society.

In conclusion, From Reading to Writing, Volume 1 is a highly effective textbook for students of Arabic as a heritage language. Its content- and task-based approach, combined with authentic texts and engaging activities, ensures that learners develop the necessary skills to communicate effectively in both modern and traditional Arabic contexts. Whether used in a classroom setting or for self-study, this book is an essential tool for anyone seeking to enhance their Arabic language proficiency.

ISBN-13: 9781649032737