Arabic Linguistics and Dialectology

This module will be available in 2012-13

About this module

This module aims to introduce students to the linguistic structure of Arabic, including sounds (phonetics and phonology), word and sentence structure (morphology and syntax), lexis (lexicology and terminology), semantics, and dialectal and sociolinguistic variation (inlcuding the phenomenon of disglossia).  It provids a systematic diachronic and synchronic analysis of the linguistics of Arabic, based on original materials and texts.

Teaching and Learning

The module is taught in the form of weekly one-hour lectures, with fortnightly tutorials.  The module is taught in English, but extensive use will be made of Arabic in the classroom.  Students are expected to attend all classes and tutorials, prepare themselves for classes and participate actively in discussion.  Attendance will be monitored in all teaching sessions.

Summative Assessment

The module is assessed by means of two summative essays of 2,500 words each (50% each).

Recommended Texts

• Holes, C. (2004) Modern Arabic: Structures, Functions, and Varieties, Georgetown University Press
• Versteegh, C. (1994) The Arabic Language, Edinburgh University Press

Co-ordinator:

Professor Daniel Newman (daniel.newman@durham.ac.uk), room A8, Elvet Riverside I