141174 SE Selected topics of Modern Standard Arabic (2020S)

This course has a communicative approach. This means that students NEED to read and work on texts and assignments before class. The time in class will be used mainly for activities, group discussions and debates that will build on these readings.

1) Attendance is required. In case of absence, students will be required to review the contents of the class and to present the necessary assignments in the next session. The maximum number of absences allowed is 3. Students who miss more than 3 classes will not be evaluated.

2) Punctuality is expected and required from students. Delays superior to 10 minutes will be considered 1/2 absence.

3) Participation is essential. Every student is an essential component of the class. Students' participation is also the main indicator for the instructor to evaluate whether students have done their designated readings and/or assimilated the contents previously seen in class.

4) Weekly assignments. There will be weekly readings (at least two articles/chapters per week) that will normally amount to approx. 50-80 pages. Some weeks, additional (short) assignments might be also required from the students.

5) A respectful and positive attitude. In this course, we will be dealing with sensitive topics, such as politics, religion, gender, etc. It is of the utmost importance that students come to class with an open and scientific mind. The objective of the class is to explore the diversity of opinions and approaches towards specific sociolinguistic topics in order to broaden our knowledge and awareness on these topics, rather than to impose our personal views about them on others. Lacks of respect will not be tolerated UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCE.