Arabic Language

GEE has developed a comprehensive kindergarten through eleventh grade standards- based Arabic curriculum focused on Michigan’s 5 Cs (i.e. Communication, Cultures, Connections, Comparisons and Communities). The Arabic language courses provide students with the tools necessary to communicate in real-life situations, to enhance cultural awareness and to inspire lifelong learning in a global society.

Arabic is provided and offered as a mandatory foreign language to all students on a daily basis. Proficiency levels are based on American Council of the Foreign Languages’ (“ACTFL”) pyramid beginning with novice (e.g., low, mid and high), continuing on to intermediate (e.g., low, mid and high) and ending with pre-advanced (e.g., low, mid and high).

Arabic thematic unit materials have been developed and are used in the classrooms. One theme per month is covered for eight consecutive months, allowing the month of June for review. Arabic language skills are developed sequentially and progressively from letters to words, phrases, sentences, paragraphs and final essay compositions. Unit assessments are teacher-made assessments and used with every unit. Furthermore, two proficiency assessments are given to measure annual progress in listening, reading and writing language skills.

The Arabic language curriculum:

1. Provides assessment goals at each proficiency level aligned with national and state standards.
2. Provides a progression of communicative functions in the target language.
3. Recommends opportunities for authentic practice in communication.
4. Provides resources on a variety of cultural topics.
5. Promotes divergent and critical thinking.
6. Identifies cross-curricular activities.
7. Supports academic achievement in other disciplines.
8. Reinforces skills in the students’ first language (reading comprehension, grammar/mechanics and writing/speaking).
9. Promotes awareness of a diverse multicultural society.
10. Provides opportunities for interpersonal interaction using the target language with native speakers.
11. Prepares the students to be global citizens by broadening the students’ understanding of the world.