Study Guides Based on Media Arabic: A Coursebook for Reading Arabic News

The first study guide set is based on the textbook Media Arabic: A Coursebook for Reading Arabic News published by The American University in Cairo Press. These guides also use The Top 1,000 Words for Understanding Media Arabic published by Georgetown and selections from GLOSS: The Global Language Online Support System. There are twenty study guides designed to be used in either a one-semester full course or in two half courses spread over two semesters.
 

Study Guide 1

Media Arabic, Meetings and Conferences, Part 1

Practice Exercises

  • Section 2 pp. 9-13: Practice finding the main information in a news article by completing the series of exercises. Learn the new vocabulary words.
  • Section 3 pp. 14-15: Learn how essential information is organized in a news article. Learn the specific vocabulary words and phrases that will provide the orienting information about meetings and conferences.
  • Section 4 pp. 16-21:
    • Begin by giving titles to each of the article excerpts, and then write the location and topics of each of the summits.
    • Learn to link the information between articles by replying to questions 1 and 2 after rereading the excerpts.
    • Learn to integrate and retain the information you read by connecting it to your own background knowledge and interests by responding to questions 3 through 5.
    • Deepen your understanding of the new vocabulary and learn to think critically about the reporter's voice by reflecting on the way word choice impacts the way information will be interpreted. Start by giving the three articles titles that reflect how the author is interpreting the information he or she is reporting. Then write out the information which is shared between the three articles.
    • Practice analyzing an author's voice critically and distinguishing the raw information from the author's interpretive voice by responding to the questions.
  • Memorize the vocabulary from pp. 5-9 of the Kendall Media Arabic vocabulary book.
  • Write two short news reports using the vocabulary from pp. 5-9 in the Kendall book.
  • Choose three major Arabic newspapers to read daily online. Check the headlines every day, and prepare to relate the top three headlines of the week in your conversation session.

Homework to Hand in

  • Section 4, questions 1-5, pp. 17-18
  • Section 4, questions 1-4, pp. 20-21
  • Two or three short news reports using vocabulary on pp. 5-9 of the Kendall book

Self Assessment

  • I have completed Part 1 of "Meetings and Conferences", pp. 9-21.
  • I have practiced finding the main information in an article related to meetings and conferences.
  • I have tuned my sensitivity to the author's interpretive voice, and have practiced separating the voice from the content.
  • I am able to think and write about the news fragments in the chapter critically and comparatively in Arabic.
  • I have memorized the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 5-9.
  • I am becoming familiar with the layout of several Arabic newspapers and can skim them, determining the most important headlines.
  • I am able to discuss a recent news event with others in Arabic.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Have the students report the top three headlines of the week.

  • Have the students watch a news segment, and then ask them questions to test their comprehension. Show them the segment again until they understand it.
  • Engage the students in a discussion on a recent news event, preferably one using the new vocabulary from both books. Encourage the students to incorporate the new vocabulary into the discussion.

Study Guide 2

Media Arabic, Meetings and Conferences, Part 2

Practice Exercises

  • Section 5 pp. 23-27: Refine your understanding of the new vocabulary words by learning their precise use according to category and context.
    • Starting with exercises 3 and 4, categorize the vocabulary words in the provided charts, and then use the appropriate word to complete each sentence in the exercises.
    • Make pairs between the nouns and the verbs, and then use the pairs to fill in the blanks in exercise 5.
    • Use the correct prepositions to complete the paragraphs in exercise 6.
    • Drawing from all the new vocabulary, complete the paragraphs in exercise 7.
    • Translate the English vocabulary into Arabic, and then use these words to complete the report in exercise 8.
  • Section 6 pp. 30-32: Read the hints for successful speed reading, and then title the five excerpts after skimming each one for essential information.
  • Section 7 pp. 33-34: Learn to discern the bias of a news report by distinguishing the author's attitude and focus and paying attention to loaded language. Read the excerpts and compare them to each other by answering questions 1 through 3.
  • Memorize the vocabulary from pp. 10-14 of the Kendall book.
  • Write two short news reports using the vocabulary from pp. 10-14 in the Kendall book.
  • Prepare to relate the top three headlines of the week in your conversation session.
  • Listen to the news segment (2-3 min) assigned by your mentor, and prepare to report on what you hear.

Homework to Hand in

  • Section 5, exercises 3-8, pp. 23-27
  • Section 7, questions 1-3, pp. 33-34
  • Short news reports using vocabulary on pp. 10-14 of the Kendall book

Self Assessment

  • I have completed Part 2 of "Meetings and Conferences," pp. 23-34.
  • I have learned the precise usage of the vocabulary words from "Meetings and Conferences" and I have practiced using them in sentences and paragraphs.
  • I have practiced speed reading news excerpts to glean essential information.
  • I have learned ways to discern the author's bias and explore his or her particular approach and attitude.
  • I have memorized the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 10-14.
  • I am able to write news reports using the new vocabulary I have learned.
  • I consistently skim Arabic newspapers and can determine and relate the most important headlines.
  • I have practiced listening to a news report in Arabic for comprehension.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Have the students report the top three headlines of the week.
  • Have the students report on the oral news segment (2-3 minutes) which they were assigned for the week. Encourage the students to incorporate the new vocabulary, in particular the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 10-14.
  • Engage the students in a discussion on a recent major news event. Encourage the students to incorporate the new vocabulary, in particular the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 10-14.

Study Guide 3

Media Arabic, Meetings and Conferences, Part 3

Practice Exercises

  • Section 7 pp. 34-35: Continue learning to discern the bias of a news report by distinguishing the author's attitude and focus and paying attention to loaded language. Read the second set of excerpts and compare them to each other by answering the questions.
  • Find two news reports in two different Arabic news sources on the same meeting or conference. Read them carefully and then write a brief article (2 paragraphs) comparing the two reports. Comment on the word choices, attitudes, and particular focus of each report.
  • Memorize the vocabulary from pp. 15-19 of the Kendall book.
  • Prepare a paragraph-long news report to present orally in your conversation session using the vocabulary from pp. 15-19 in the Kendall book.
  • Complete the GLOSS online language lesson "A Phone Conversation Between Two Presidents" (http://gloss.dliflc.edu/products/gloss/ad_pol403/default.html) to develop your listening skills.
  • Prepare to report on the audio news segment from the GLOSS lesson in your conversation session.
  • Prepare to relate the top three headlines of the week in your conversation session.

Homework to Hand in

  • Section 7, questions 1-3, pp. 34-35
  • Article comparing the two articles from different news sources (2 paragraphs)

Self Assessment

  • I have completed Part 3 of "Meetings and Conferences," pp. 34-35.
  • I have practiced discerning an author's bias and exploring his or her particular approach and attitude.
  • I am able to write an article commenting on the biases found in two differing news reports on the same meeting or conference.
  • I have memorized the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 15-19.
  • I am able to prepare a news report to present orally.
  • I have exercised my listening skills by completing a series of exercises on an audio report on a conversation between two presidents.
  • I consistently skim Arabic newspapers and can determine and relate the most important headlines.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Have the students report the top three headlines of the week.

  • Have the students present their paragraph-long news reports using the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 15-19.
  • Have the students watch a news segment, and then ask them questions to test their comprehension. Show them the segment again until they understand it.

Study Guide 4

Media Arabic, Demonstrations, Part 1

Practice Exercises

  • Section 2 pp. 39-41: Practice finding the main information in a news article through the series of exercises. Learn the new vocabulary words.
  • Section 3 p. 42: Learn how essential information is organized in a news article. Learn the specific vocabulary words and phrases that will provide the orienting information about demonstrations.
  • Section 4 pp. 43-49:
    • Begin by giving titles to each of the article excerpts, and then write the location, specific purpose, and participating organizations of each of the demonstrations.
    • Learn to link the information between articles by replying to questions 1 and 2 after rereading the excerpts.
    • Learn to integrate and retain the information you read by connecting to it personally by responding to questions 3 through 5.
    • Deepen your understanding of the new vocabulary and learn to think critically about the reporter's voice by reflecting on the way word choice impacts the way the information will be interpreted. Start by giving the two articles titles that reflect how the author is interpreting the information he or she is reporting. Then write out the essential information from each of the two articles.
    • Practice analyzing an author's voice critically and distinguishing the raw information from the author's interpretive voice by responding to the questions.
  • Memorize the vocabulary from pp. 20-25 of the Kendall book.
  • Prepare a paragraph-long news report to present orally in your conversation session using the vocabulary from pp. 20-25 in the Kendall book.
  • Prepare to relate the top three headlines of the week in your conversation session.
  • Listen to the news segment (2-3 minutes) assigned by your mentor, and prepare to engage in a discussion in your conversation session.

Homework to Hand in

  • Section 4, questions 1-5, pp. 45-46
  • Section 4, questions 1-4, pp. 48-49

Self Assessment

  • I have completed Part 1 of "Demonstrations," pp. 39-49.
  • I have practiced finding the main information in an article related demonstrations.
  • I have tuned my sensitivity to the author's interpretive voice, and have practiced separating the voice from the content.
  • I am able to think and write about the news fragments in the chapter as they relate to my personal ideas and circumstances.
  • I have memorized the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 20-25.
  • I am able to write and orally deliver a brief news report.
  • I consistently skim Arabic newspapers and can determine and relate the most important headlines.
  • I have practiced listening to a news report in Arabic for comprehension and I can discuss it with others in Arabic.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Have the students report the top three headlines of the week.
  • Have the students present their paragraph-long news reports using the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 20-25.
  • Engage the students in a discussion on the audio news segment (2-3 minutes) you assigned to them. Encourage the students to incorporate the new vocabulary, in particular the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 20-25.
  • Have the students watch a news segment, and then ask them questions to test their comprehension. Show them the segment again until they understand it.

Study Guide 5

Media Arabic, Demonstrations, Part 2

Practice Exercises

  • Section 5 pp. 51-54: Refine your understanding of the new vocabulary words by learning their precise use according to category and context.
    • Starting with exercises 3 and 4, categorize the vocabulary words in the provided charts, and then use the appropriate word to complete each sentence in the exercises.
    • Make pairs between the nouns and the verbs, and then use the pairs to fill in the blanks in exercise 5.
    • Use the correct prepositions to complete the paragraphs in exercise 6.
    • Drawing from all the new vocabulary, complete the paragraphs in exercise 7.
  • Section 6 pp. 56-57: Read the hints for successful speed reading, and then title the five excerpts after skimming each one for essential information.
  • Section 7 pp. 59-60: Learn to discern the bias of a news report by noting the author's word choices. Read the excerpts, title them, and then compare them to each other by answering questions 1 through 3.
  • Memorize the vocabulary from pp. 27-31 of the Kendall book.
  • Write two short news reports using the vocabulary from pp. 27-31 in the Kendall book.
  • Prepare to relate the top three headlines of the week in your conversation session.
  • Read the article assigned by your mentor (200 words), and prepare two points to contribute to a discussion in your conversation session.

Homework to Hand in

  • Section 5, exercises 3-7, pp. 51-54
  • Section 7, questions 1-3, pp. 59-60
  • Short news reports using vocabulary on pp. 27-31 of the Kendall book

Self Assessment

  • I have completed Part 2 of "Demonstrations," pp. 51-60.
  • I have learned the precise usage of the vocabulary words from "Demonstrations" and I have practiced using them in sentences and paragraphs.
  • I have practiced speed reading news excerpts to glean essential information.
  • I have learned ways to discern the author's bias by noting and interpreting his or her word choices.
  • I have memorized the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 27-31.
  • I am able to write news reports using the new vocabulary I have learned.
  • I consistently skim Arabic newspapers and can determine and relate the most important headlines.
  • I have read an article from an Arabic newspaper, and I am able to contribute to a discussion about it with my conversation partners.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Have the students report the top three headlines of the week.
  • Have the students summarize the news article (200 words) you assigned to them.
  • Engage the students in a discussion on the news article. Encourage the students to incorporate the new vocabulary, in particular the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 27-31.
  • Have the students watch a news segment, and then ask them questions to test their comprehension. Show them the segment again until they understand it.

Study Guide 6

Media Arabic, Demonstrations, Part 3

Practice Exercises

  • Section 7 pp. 60-61: Continue learning to discern the bias of a news report by noticing the information the author includes or excludes, and how he or she refers to the parties involved. Read the second set of excerpts and compare them to each other by answering the questions.
  • Find two news reports in two different Arabic news sources on the same demonstration. Read them carefully and then write a brief article (3 paragraphs) comparing the two reports, commenting on the word choices, inclusions/exclusions, and privileged sources in each one.
  • Memorize the vocabulary from pp. 32-36 of the Kendall book.
  • Prepare a paragraph-long news report to present orally in your conversation session using the vocabulary from pp. 32-36 in the Kendall book.
  • Complete the GLOSS online language lesson "The Egyptian Presidency" (http://gloss.dliflc.edu/searchresults.aspx?p=9) to develop your listening skills. Note that the newscaster and the interviewees will speak with a Cairo accent, pronouncing a hard jeem.
  • Prepare to report on the audio news segment from the GLOSS lesson in your conversation session.
  • Prepare to relate the top three headlines of the week in your conversation session.

Homework to Hand in

  • Section 7, questions 1-3, pp. 60-61
  • Article comparing the two articles from different news sources (3 paragraphs)

Self Assessment

  • I have completed Part 3 of "Demonstrations," pp. 60-61.
  • I have practiced determining an author's bias from choice of vocabulary and content.
  • I am able to write an article commenting on the biases found in two differing news reports on the same demonstration.
  • I have memorized the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 32-36.
  • I am able to prepare a news report to present orally.
  • I have exercised my listening skills by completing a series of exercises on an audio report relating to popular protest of presidential election results.
  • I consistently skim Arabic newspapers and can determine and relate the most important headlines.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Have the students report the top three headlines of the week.
  • Have the students present their news reports using the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 32-36.
  • Engage the students in a discussion on the event covered in the assigned oral news segment. Encourage the students to incorporate the new vocabulary, in particular the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 32-36.

Study Guide 7

Media Arabic, Revision of Units One and Two

Practice Exercises

  • Memorize the vocabulary from pp. 37-41 of the Kendall book.
  • Section 1, "Meetings and Conferences," pp. 63-65:
    • Exercise 1: Use the vocabulary you learned from "Meetings and Conferences" to fill in the blanks.
    • Exercise 2: Read the news report and test your comprehension by responding to the questions.
    • Choose a series of summits such as the G-8 or the Arab League and prepare an oral presentation on three major developments that have occurred during the past two meetings in this series. Use Arabic press as your resource. Use the new vocabulary from the Kendall book in your presentation.
  • Section 2, "Demonstrations," pp. 67-69:
    • Exercise 1: Use the vocabulary you learned from "Demonstrations" to fill in the blanks.
    • Exercise 2: Read the news report and test your comprehension by responding to the questions.
    • Find two articles on a recent demonstration which differ in their representation of the event. Write an essay (250 words) on the differences between the two authors' accounts, offering an explanation for these differences and for the attitudes, priorities, and choices of each author.
  • Prepare to relate the top three headlines of the week in your conversation session.

Homework to Hand in

  • Article contrasting two news reports about a specific demonstration (250 words)

Self Assessment

  • I have memorized the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 37-41.
  • I have completed the revision of Units 1 and 2, pp. 63-65 and 67-69.
  • I have strengthened my knowledge of the correct usage of the new vocabulary relating to meetings and conferences, and demonstrations.
  • I am able to do research about a series of summits using only Arabic press.
  • I am able to prepare and deliver an oral presentation.
  • I am able to reflect on the reporters' biases in two differing accounts of a demonstration.
  • I consistently skim Arabic newspapers and can determine and relate the most important headlines.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Have the students report the top three headlines of the week.
  • Have the students deliver their oral presentations on three major developments during the past two meetings in a series of summits, such as the G-8 or the Arab League.
  • Have the students watch a news segment, and then ask them questions to test their comprehension. Show them the segment again until they understand it.

Study Guide 8

Media Arabic, Elections, Part 1

Practice Exercises

  • Section 2 pp. 73-75: Practice finding the main information in a news article through the series of exercises. Learn the new vocabulary words.
  • Section 3 p. 76: Learn how essential information is organized in a news article. Learn the specific vocabulary words and phrases that will provide the orienting information about elections.
  • Section 4 pp. 77-79:
    • Begin by giving titles to each of the article excerpts, and then write which elections were discussed and which violations occurred in each.
    • Read the excerpts carefully and reflect on the issues in each by replying to questions 1 and 2.
    • Connect the information you have read to your own personal experience and interests by responding to questions 3 and 4.
  • Memorize the vocabulary from pp. 42-46 of the Kendall book.
  • Write two short news reports using the vocabulary from pp. 42-46 in the Kendall book.
  • Prepare to relate the top three headlines of the week in your conversation session.
  • Read the article (200 words) assigned by your mentor, and prepare at least two points to contribute to a discussion in your conversation session.

Homework to Hand in

  • Section 4, questions 1-4, pp. 78-79
  • Two short news reports using vocabulary on pp. 42-46 of the Kendall book

Self Assessment

  • I have completed Part 1 of "Elections," pp. 73-79.
  • I have practiced finding the main information in an article related to elections.
  • I am able to think and write about the news fragments in the chapter as they relate to my personal experience and interests.
  • I have memorized the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 42-46.
  • I am able to write news reports using the new vocabulary I have learned.
  • I consistently skim Arabic newspapers and can determine and relate the most important headlines.
  • I have practiced listening to a news report in Arabic for comprehension.
  • I am able to discuss an issue or event in the news in Arabic with my conversation partners.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Have the students report the top three headlines of the week.
  • Have the students summarize the news article (200 words) you assigned to them.
  • Engage the students in a discussion on the news article. Encourage the students to incorporate the new vocabulary, in particular the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 42-46.
  • Have the students watch a news segment, and then ask them questions to test their comprehension. Show them the segment again until they understand it.

Study Guide 9

Media Arabic, Elections, Part 2

Practice Exercises

  • Section 5 pp. 81-85: Refine your understanding of the new vocabulary words by learning their precise use according to category and context.
    • Starting with exercises 3 and 4, categorize the vocabulary words in the provided charts, and then use the appropriate word to complete each sentence in the exercises.
    • Make pairs between the nouns and the verbs, and then use the pairs to fill in the blanks in exercise 5.
    • Use the correct prepositions to complete the paragraphs in exercise 6.
    • Drawing from all the new vocabulary, complete the paragraphs in exercise 7.
  • Section 6 pp. 86-88: Using the skimming techniques mentioned, speed read the excerpts and write a title for each one.
  • Section 7 pp. 89-90: Practice evaluating how objective a news report is by comparing reports from two sources. Read the reports, title them, and then compare them to each other by answering questions 1 and 2.
  • Memorize the vocabulary from pp. 47-50 of the Kendall book.
  • Prepare a paragraph-long news report to present orally in your conversation session using the vocabulary from pp. 47-50 in the Kendall book.
  • Prepare to relate the top three headlines of the week in your conversation session.
  • Listen to the news segment (5 minutes) assigned by your mentor, and prepare to report on and discuss what you hear.

Homework to Hand in

  • Section 5, exercises 3-7, pp. 81-84
  • Section 7, questions 1-2, p. 90

Self Assessment

  • I have completed Part 2 of "Elections," pp. 81-90.
  • I have learned the precise usage of the vocabulary words from "Elections" and I have practiced using them in sentences and paragraphs.
  • I have practiced speed reading news excerpts.
  • I have practiced evaluating how objective the information in a news report is by comparing reports from two different sources.
  • I have memorized the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 47-50.
  • I am able to prepare and deliver an oral news report using the new vocabulary I have learned.
  • I consistently skim Arabic newspapers and can determine and relate the most important headlines.
  • I have practiced listening to a news report in Arabic for comprehension.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Have the students report the top three headlines of the week.
  • Have the students present their paragraph-long news reports using the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 47-50.
  • Have the students report on the oral news segment (5 minutes) you assigned them.
  • Engage the students in a discussion on the event covered in the oral news segment and on the larger issues involved.

Study Guide 10

Media Arabic, Elections, Part 3

Practice Exercises

  • Section 7 pp. 90-92: Continue learning to evaluate how objective a news report is by comparing two sources. Read the second set of excerpts and consider the quality of reporting in each one by answering the questions.
  • Find two news reports in two different Arabic news sources on the same election. Read them carefully and then write a brief article (3 paragraphs) comparing the two reports: How objective are they? Do they include a range of different points of view?
  • Memorize the vocabulary from pp. 51-53 of the Kendall book.
  • Write notes for an oral report (7 minutes) on a particular event that you have followed in the Arabic news for two to three weeks. Your notes should include some comment or critique on the way the press has covered the event. Prepare to relate your report and commentary orally in your conversation session.
  • Complete the GLOSS online language lesson "Lebanon's Elections" (http://gloss.dliflc.edu/products/gloss/ad_pol210/default.html) to develop your listening skills.
  • Prepare to report on the audio news segment from the GLOSS lesson in your conversation session and discuss the larger issues at stake in the event.

Homework to Hand in

  • Section 7, questions 1-4, pp. 91-92
  • Article (3 paragraphs) comparing the two articles from different news sources

Self Assessment

  • I have completed Part 3 of "Elections," pp. 90-92.
  • I have practiced evaluating how objective the information in a news report is by comparing two sources.
  • I am able to write a brief article analyzing the biases in two differing news reports on the same election.
  • I have memorized the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 51-53.
  • I have followed the unfolding press coverage of a particular event in the Arabic press.
  • I am able to give an oral report on this event which involves some critique.
  • I have exercised my listening skills by completing a series of exercises on an audio report relating to popular protest of presidential election results.
  • I consistently skim Arabic newspapers and can determine and relate the most important headlines.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Engage the students in a brief discussion on the larger issues at stake in the even in the language lesson "Lebanon's Elections."
  • Have the students deliver their oral reports (7 minutes) on an enduring news event, involving a critique of the way the event was covered in the press.

Study Guide 11

Media Arabic, Conflicts and Terrorism, Part 1

Practice Exercises

  • Section 2 pp. 95-103:
    • Practice finding the orienting information from news excerpts concerning conflicts on pp. 95-98. Learn the new vocabulary words.
    • Practice finding the orienting information from news excerpts concerning terrorism on pp. 99-103. Learn the new vocabulary words.
  • Section 3 pp. 104-105: Learn about how the information is organized in a news report. Learn the words and expressions signaling cause and effect relating to conflicts and terrorism.
  • Section 4 pp. 106-114:
    • Begin by giving titles to each of the article excerpts, and then write the incident and victims reported in each excerpt.
    • Learn to link the information between articles by replying to questions 1 and 2 after rereading the excerpts.
    • Learn to integrate and retain the information you read by connecting it to your own background knowledge and interests by responding to questions 3 and 4.
    • Learn to assess the bias of a news report from the title by reading the titles listed and replying to questions 1 through 3, and again for questions 4-6.
    • Learn how to discern when a news report is heavily biased or slanted by comparing the two articles about the same news event. Fill in the chart regarding the information each article presents, and then respond to the questions.
  • Memorize the vocabulary from pp. 55-59 of the Kendall Media Arabic vocabulary book.
  • Prepare one or two news reports using the vocabulary from pp. 55-59 in the Kendall book which you will give orally in your conversation session.
  • Choose three major Arabic newspapers to read daily online. Read the top stories every day, and prepare to relate one of the top news stories of the week in your conversation session and to discuss others.

Homework to Hand in

  • Section 4, questions 3-4, pp. 108-109
  • Section 4, questions 4-6, pp. 111-112
  • Section 4, questions 1-3, p. 114

Self Assessment

  • I have completed Part 1 of "Conflicts and Terrorism," pp. 95-114.
  • I have practiced finding the orienting information in an article relating to conflicts and terrorism.
  • I can understand and connect article excerpts related to conflicts and terrorism.
  • I have practiced assessing the bias of a news report from its title.
  • I have practiced discerning when a news report is heavily slanted or biased.
  • I have memorized the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 55-59.
  • I have skimmed the top news stories in Arabic on a daily basis and I can relate a news story orally.
  • I am able to write and orally deliver news reports.
  • I can discuss news stories with others in Arabic.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Have each of the students relate one of the top news stories of the week .
  • Engage the students in a discussion about some of the week's top news stories.
  • Have the students present their oral news reports using the new vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 55-59.
  • Have the students watch a news segment, ask them questions to test their comprehension, showing them the segment again if helpful.

Study Guide 12

Media Arabic, Conflicts and Terrorism, Part 2

Practice Exercises

  • Section 5 pp. 116-120: Refine your understanding of the new vocabulary words by learning their precise use according to category and context.
    • Exercise 3: Categorize the verbs you have learned according to which noun they are used with, and then use the words to complete each sentence.
    • Exercise 4: Fill in the five slots in the chart with the verbs that have similar meanings.
    • Exercise 5: Make pairs between the nouns and the verbs, and then use the pairs to fill in the blanks.
    • Exercise 6: Use the correct prepositions to complete the paragraphs.
    • Exercise 7: Complete the paragraphs drawing from all the new vocabulary.
  • Section 6 pp. 122-124: Skim the excerpts and write a title for each one.
  • Section 7 pp. 125-126: Practice evaluating the objectivity of a news source by comparing reports from two different sources on the same news event.
  • Memorize the vocabulary from pp. 60-64 of the Kendall book.
  • Write two paragraph-long news reports using the vocabulary from pp. 60-64 in the Kendall book.
  • Prepare to relate one of the top news stories of the week in your conversation session.
  • Read the news article assigned by your mentor and prepare to contribute your point of view in your conversation session.

Homework to Hand in

  • Section 5, exercises 3, 5, and 7, pp. 116-120
  • Section 7, questions 1-5, p. 126
  • Short news reports using vocabulary on pp. 60-64 of the Kendall book

Self Assessment

  • I have completed Part 2 of "Conflicts and Terrorism", pp. 116-126.
  • I have learned the precise usage of the vocabulary words from "Conflicts and Terrorism" and I have practiced using them in sentences and paragraphs.
  • I have practiced skimming news excerpts.
  • I have practiced evaluating the objectivity of a news source by comparing reports from different sources.
  • I have memorized the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 60-64.
  • I am able to write news reports using the new vocabulary I have learned.
  • I consistently skim the top news stories in Arabic and I can relate a news story orally.
  • I have read an article from an Arabic newspaper, and I am able to express my point of view on the article in a discussion in Arabic.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Have each of the students relate one of the top news stories of the week.
  • Have the students summarize the points of the news article you assigned to them.
  • Engage the students in a discussion of the news article, making sure each student contributes a point of view.
  • Have the students watch a news segment, ask them questions to test their comprehension, showing them the segment again if helpful.

Study Guide 13

Media Arabic, Conflicts and Terrorism, Part 3

Practice Exercises

  • Section 7 pp. 126-128: Continue evaluating the objectivity of a news source by comparing reports from different sources. Read the second set of excerpts and compare them to each other by answering the questions.
  • Find two news reports in two different Arabic news sources on the same conflict or terrorist attack. Read them carefully and then write an article (200 words) comparing the two reports.
  • Memorize the vocabulary from pp. 65-69 of the Kendall book.
  • Prepare a brief news report to present orally in your conversation session using the vocabulary from pp. 65-69 in the Kendall book.
  • Complete the GLOSS online language lesson "A Shooting Incident" (http://gloss.dliflc.edu/products/gloss/ad_sec402/default.html) to develop your listening skills.
  • Complete the GLOSS online language lesson "An Arrest of Terrorists" (http://gloss.dliflc.edu/products/gloss/ad_pol401/default.html) to develop your listening skills.
  • Prepare to discuss the audio news segments from both GLOSS lessons in your conversation session; think about how they relate to events you have been reading about in the news.
  • Prepare to relate one of the top news stories of the week in your conversation session.

Homework to Hand in

  • Section 7, questions 1-5, pp. 127-128
  • Article comparing the two articles from different news sources (200 words)

Self Assessment

  • I have completed Part 3 of "Conflicts and Terrorism," pp. 126-128.
  • I have practiced evaluating the objectivity of a news source by comparing reports from different sources.
  • I am able to write an article comparing the relative objectivity of two differing news reports on the same conflict or terrorist attack.
  • I have memorized the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 65-69.
  • I am able to prepare and present a news report orally.
  • I have exercised my listening skills by completing a series of exercises on two audio reports and discussing them in Arabic with my conversation partners.
  • I consistently skim the top news stories in Arabic and I can relate a news story orally.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Have each of the students relate one of the top news stories of the week.
  • Have the students present their oral news report using the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 65-69.

"An Arrest of Terrorists" (http://gloss.dliflc.edu/products/gloss/ad_pol401/default.html).

  • Engage the students in a discussion about the two reports in the GLOSS lesson. Have them discuss these news reports in relation to events they have been reading about in the news.

Study Guide 14

Media Arabic, Revision of Units Three and Four

Practice Exercises

  • Section 1, "Elections," pp. 129-132:
    • Exercise 1: Use the vocabulary you learned from "Elections" to fill in the blanks.
    • Exercise 2: Read the news report and reflect on its significance by responding to the questions.
    • Prepare an oral presentation (5 minutes) on the events and issues surrounding a recent newsworthy election. Use Arabic press as your resource.
  • Section 2, "Conflicts and Terrorism," pp. 134-137:
    • Exercise 1: Use the vocabulary you learned from "Conflicts and Terrorism" to fill in the blanks.
    • Exercise 2: Read the news report and test your comprehension by responding to the questions.
    • Find two articles on a recent conflict or terrorist attack which differ widely in their representation of the event. Write an article (200 words) on the differences between the two authors' accounts, offering an explanation for these differences and for the attitudes, priorities, and choices of each author.
  • Memorize the vocabulary from pp. 70-73 of the Kendall book.
  • Complete the GLOSS online language lesson "Economic News" (http://gloss.dliflc.edu/products/gloss/ad_ecn201/default.html) to develop your listening skills.
  • Prepare to discuss the audio news segment from the GLOSS lesson in your conversation session; think about how the segment relates to events you have been reading about in the news. In your discussion, use the vocabulary related to economics from pp. 67-73 of the Kendall book.
  • Prepare to relate one of the top news stories of the week in your conversation session.

Homework to Hand in

  • Article on the contrast between two news reports about a specific conflict or terrorist attack (200 words)

Self Assessment

  • I have completed the revision of Units 1 and 2, pp. 129-132 and 134-137.
  • I have strengthened my knowledge of the correct usage of the new vocabulary relative to elections, and conflicts and terrorism.
  • I am able to do research on an election using only Arabic press.
  • I am able to prepare and deliver a detailed oral presentation.
  • I am able to analyze bias in two different accounts of a conflict or terrorist attack.
  • I have memorized the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 70-73.
  • I have exercised my listening skills by completing a series of exercises on an audio report on economic news in the Middle East.
  • I have used the vocabulary related to economics from pp. 67-73 of the Kendall book in a discussion about economic news in the Middle East.
  • I have skimmed the top news stories in Arabic on a daily basis and I can relate a news story orally.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Have each of the students relate one of the top news stories of the week.
  • Have the students deliver their oral presentations (5 minutes) on the events and issues surrounding a recent newsworthy election.
  • Engage the students in a discussion about the GLOSS online language lesson "Economic News" (http://gloss.dliflc.edu/products/gloss/ad_ecn201/default.html). Have them discuss the news report in relation to events they have been reading about in the news. Have them use the vocabulary related to economics from pp. 67-73 of the Kendall book.

Study Guide 15

Media Arabic, Trials, Part 1

Practice Exercises

  • Section 2 pp. 141-146:
    • Practice finding the orienting information in news excerpts concerning trials on pp. 141-143. Learn the new vocabulary words.
    • Practice finding the orienting information in news excerpts concerning trials on pp. 144-146. Learn the new vocabulary words.
  • Section 3 pp. 147-149: Learn how the information in news reports relating to arrests and trials is usually organized. Learn how passive and active verbs are usually used in these types of news reports.
  • Section 4 pp. 150-153:
    • Read the article excerpts, paying attention to which verbs are in the passive voice, and give a title to each excerpt. Then list the verbs in the passive voice found in each article.
    • Reread the excerpts to reply to questions 1 and 2.
    • Integrate the information in the articles by relating it to your own interests by responding to questions 3 and 4.
  • Section 5 pp. 155-156: Refine your understanding of the new vocabulary words by learning their precise use according to category and context.
    • Exercise 3: Categorize the verbs and expressions you have learned according to which noun they are used with, and then use the words to complete each sentence.
    • Exercise 4: Make pairs between the nouns and the verbs, and then use the pairs to fill in the blanks.
  • Memorize the vocabulary from pp. 81-85 of the Kendall book.
  • Write two paragraph-long news reports using the vocabulary from pp. 81-85 in the Kendall book.
  • Prepare to relate one of the top news stories of the week in your conversation session.
  • Listen to the news story assigned by your mentor, and prepare to contribute your point of view to a discussion in your conversation session.

Homework to Hand in

  • Section 4, questions 3-4, p. 153
  • Section 5, questions 3-4, pp. 155-156
  • Two news reports using vocabulary on pp. 81-85 of the Kendall book

Self Assessment

  • I have completed Part 1 of "Trials," pp. 141-156.
  • I have practiced finding the orienting information in an article about a trial.
  • I understand how the parts of a news story related to trials are organized.
  • I can understand and engage personally with an article about a trial.
  • I have learned the precise usage of the vocabulary words from "Trials" and I have practiced using them in sentences.
  • I have memorized the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 81-85.
  • I have skimmed the top news stories in Arabic on a daily basis and I can relate a news story orally.
  • I can understand and discuss an audio news report in Arabic.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Have each of the students relate one of the top news stories of the week.
  • Have the students summarize the oral news story which you assigned them.
  • Engage the students in a discussion about the news story, and the larger issues at stake in the event. Encourage the students to incorporate the new vocabulary, in particular the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 81-85.
  • Have the students watch a news segment, ask them questions to test their comprehension, showing them the segment again if helpful.

Study Guide 16

Media Arabic, Trials, Part 2

Practice Exercises

  • Section 5 pp. 157-160: Refine your understanding of the new vocabulary words by learning their precise use according to category and context.
    • Exercise 5: Use the correct prepositions to complete the paragraphs.
    • Exercise 6: Complete the paragraphs drawing from all the new vocabulary.
    • Exercise 7: Fit the punishment to the crime, and then write a sentence justifying each assessment.
    • Exercise 8: Put the sentences of a news article in the correct order.
    • Exercise 9: Write the rest of the news article, discussing the motivation and the judgment of the given crime.
  • Section 6 pp. 162-163: Read the tips for speed reading, and then skim the excerpts and write a title for each one.
  • Section 7 pp. 165-166: Practice evaluating the objectivity of a news source by comparing reports from two different sources on the same news event.
  • Memorize the vocabulary from pp. 75-79 of the Kendall book.
  • Write two paragraph-long news reports using the vocabulary from pp. 75-79 in the Kendall book.
  • Prepare to relate one of the top news stories of the week in your conversation session.
  • Listen to the news story (5 minutes) assigned by your mentor, and prepare to contribute your point of view to a discussion in your conversation session.
  • Read the article assigned by your mentor, and prepare notes for a brief commentary which you will give as an oral presentation (5 minutes) in your conversation session.

Homework to Hand in

  • Section 5, exercises 6-9, pp. 157-160
  • Section 7, questions 1 and 2, p. 166
  • Short news reports using vocabulary on pp. 75-79 of the Kendall book

Self Assessment

  • I have completed Part 2 of "Trials," pp. 157-166.
  • I have learned the precise usage of the vocabulary words from "Trials" and I have practiced using them in paragraphs.
  • I have practiced skimming news excerpts.
  • I have practiced evaluating the objectivity of a news source by comparing reports from different sources.
  • I have memorized the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 75-79.
  • I am able to write news reports using the new vocabulary I have learned.
  • I consistently skim the top news stories in Arabic and I can relate a news story orally.
  • I can understand and discuss an audio news report in Arabic.
  • I have read an article from an Arabic newspaper, and I am able to present an oral commentary in Arabic to my conversation partners.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Have each of the students relate one of the top news stories of the week.
  • Have the students summarize the oral news story (5 minutes) which you assigned them, and then engage them in a discussion about it. Each student should contribute his or her point of view.
  • Engage the students in a discussion on the news article you assigned to them.
  • Have the students give their oral commentaries (5 minutes) on the news article you assigned to them.

Study Guide 17

Media Arabic, Trials, Part 3

Practice Exercises

  • Section 7 pp. 166-168: Continue evaluating the objectivity of a news source by comparing reports from different sources. Read the second set of excerpts and compare them to each other by answering the questions.
  • Memorize the vocabulary from pp. 87-90 of the Kendall book.
  • Prepare a brief news report to present orally in your conversation session using the vocabulary from pp. 87-90 in the Kendall book.
  • Complete the GLOSS online language lesson "Labor market issues in Saudi Arabia" (http://gloss.dliflc.edu/products/gloss/ad_soc204/default.html) to develop your listening skills.
  • Complete the GLOSS online language lesson "Oil Economics" (http://gloss.dliflc.edu/products/gloss/ad_ecn202/default.html) to develop your listening skills.
  • Prepare to discuss the audio news segments from both GLOSS lessons in your conversation session; think about how they relate to events you have been reading about in the news.
  • Prepare to relate one of the top news stories of the week in your conversation session.
  • Read the article assigned by your mentor, and prepare to discuss your opinion on the article in your conversation session.
  • Write a brief commentary (4 paragraphs) on the article.

Homework to Hand in

  • Section 7, questions 1-5, pp. 167-168
  • Commentary on the assigned article (4 paragraphs)

Self Assessment

  • I have completed Part 3 of "Trials," pp. 166-168.
  • I have practiced evaluating the objectivity of a news source by comparing reports from different sources.
  • I have memorized the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 87-90.
  • I am able to prepare and present a news report orally.
  • I have exercised my listening skills by completing a series of exercises on two audio reports and discussing them in Arabic with my conversation partners.
  • I consistently skim the top news stories in Arabic and I can relate a news story orally.
  • I have read an article from an Arabic newspaper, and I am able to discuss it in Arabic.
  • I am able to express my opinion on a news article in a written commentary.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Have each of the students relate one of the top news stories of the week.
  • Have the students present their oral news report using the vocabulary from the Kendall book, pp. 87-90.
  • Have the students summarize the main points of the article you assigned them, and then have each of them share the points of the written commentary he or she has prepared.

Study Guide 18

Media Arabic, Business and Finance, Part 1

Practice Exercises

  • Section 2 pp. 173-175:
    • Practice finding the orienting information in news excerpts related to business and finance on pp. 173-175. Learn the new vocabulary words.
  • Section 3 pp. 176-177: Read about connectors and how they can help you guess the function of different parts of the text of a news report.
  • Section 4 pp. 178-184:
    • Read and title the article excerpts on pp. 178-179, paying attention to the connectors and the function of each part of the text. Then list the stock exchange discussed in each excerpt and its status.
    • Reread the excerpts carefully to reply to questions 1 and 2.
    • Integrate the information in the articles by relating it to your own interests by responding to questions 3 and 4.
    • Read and title the article excerpts on pp. 181-182, paying attention to the connectors and the function of each part of the text. Then fill in the chart with information from the excerpts.
    • Reread the excerpts carefully to reply to questions 1 and 2.
    • Engage with the information you have read by responding to questions 3 and 4 about your critical and practical response.
  • Complete the GLOSS online language lesson "The Egyptian Pound and the Dollar" (http://gloss.dliflc.edu/products/gloss/ad_ecn203/default.html) to develop your listening skills.
  • Prepare to discuss the audio news segment from the GLOSS lesson in your conversation session; think about it relates to events you have been reading about in the news.
  • Write a news report (150 words) about the relationship of another Middle Eastern currency to the dollar using the vocabulary and elements of structure you have studied in this guide.
  • Prepare to relate your news report orally and discuss issues involving international finance.
  • Prepare to relate one of the top news stories of the week in your conversation session.

Homework to Hand in

  • Section 4, questions 3-4, p. 180
  • Section 4, questions 1-4, pp. 183-184
  • News report on a Middle Eastern currency in relation to the dollar (150 words)

Self Assessment

  • I have completed Part 1 of "Business and Finance," pp. 173-184.
  • I have practiced finding the orienting information in an article related to business and finance.
  • I have exercised my listening skills by completing a series of exercises on an audio report on comparative currency values.
  • I am able to write and orally deliver a news report related to business or finance.
  • I have skimmed the top news stories in Arabic on a daily basis and I can relate a news story orally.
  • I am able to discuss topics related to business and finance in Arabic with my conversation partners, drawing from oral and written Arabic press.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Have each of the students relate one of the top news stories of the week.
  • Have the students orallypresent the news reports they have written. Encourage each student to offer a discussion point based on his or her news report. Then facilitate a brief discussion on that topic among the students.

Study Guide 19

Media Arabic, Business and Finance, Part 2

Practice Exercises

  • Section 5 pp. 186-191: Refine your understanding of the new vocabulary words by learning their precise use according to category and context.
    • Exercise 3: Categorize the verbs you have learned according to which noun they are used with, and then use the words to complete each sentence.
    • Exercise 4: Make pairs between the nouns and the verbs, and then use the pairs to fill in the blanks.
    • Exercise 5: Use the correct prepositions to complete the paragraphs.
    • Exercise 6: Complete the paragraphs drawing from the new vocabulary.
    • Exercise 7: Use the given expressions to complete the sentences.
    • Exercise 9: Choose one of the news reports to prepare using the vocabulary provided and using information from the pictures for context. Prepare to give the news report orally in your conversation session.
  • Section 6 pp. 192-194: Practice speed-reading by timing yourself as you skim the news excerpts. Write a title for each excerpt.
  • Section 7 pp. 195-196: Practice evaluating the objectivity of a news source by comparing reports from two different sources on the same news event.
  • Read the editorial assigned by your mentor. Write a brief commentary on the article (150 words).
  • Watch the interview assigned by your mentor (30-45 minutes). Prepare points to contribute to a discussion of the interview in your conversation session.
  • Prepare to choose a topic for an in-depth debate in the final conversation session. It should be related to issues you and your conversation partners have been following and discussing during the semester.

Homework to Hand in

  • Section 5, exercises 3 and 4, pp. 186-187
  • Commentary on an editorial (150 words)

Self Assessment

  • I have completed Part 2 of "Business and Finance," pp. 186-196.
  • I have learned the precise usage of the vocabulary words and expressions from "Business and Finance" and I have practiced using them in sentences and paragraphs.
  • I have practiced skimming news excerpts.
  • I have practiced evaluating the objectivity of a news source by comparing reports from different sources.
  • I can prepare and deliver an oral news report related to business or finance.
  • I can read an Arabic editorial and write a critical commentary in Arabic.
  • I can follow the points and progress of an Arabic interview by watching and listening, and discuss it in Arabic with my conversation partners.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Have each of the students deliver his or her oral news report.
  • Have the students summarize the editorial which you assigned them.
  • Have the students summarize the interview (30-45 minutes) which you assigned them and then engage the students in a discussion about it.
  • Have the students select a topic to debate in the final conversation session. It should be something relevant to issues or topics you have been discussing during the semester and in which they already have a background so they can prepare an in-depth debate. Have the students choose sides in the debate.

Study Guide 20

Media Arabic, Business and Finance, Part 3

Practice Exercises

  • Section 7 pp. 196-197: Continue evaluating the objectivity of a news source by comparing reports from different sources. Read the second set of excerpts and compare them to each other by answering the questions.
  • Find two news reports relating to business or finance in two different Arabic news sources on the same event. Read them carefully and then write a brief description (100 words) of the contrast between the two reports.
  • Choose a news event or issue that you have been following for several weeks or throughout the semester and write an analysis of 300 words.
  • Research Arabic press, both news stories, analyses, and commentaries/editorials related to the topic you and your conversation partners have chosen for a final debate. Prepare your side of the debate.

Homework to Hand in

  • Section 7, questions 1-5, p. 197
  • Description contrasting the two articles from different news sources (100 words)
  • Analysis of a news event or issue (300 words)

Self Assessment

  • I have completed Part 3 of "Business and Finance," pp. 196-197.
  • I have practiced evaluating the objectivity of a news source by comparing reports from different sources.
  • I am able to write a description of the comparative objectivity of two differing news reports on the same event in the world of business or finance.
  • I am able to write a thorough analysis of a news event or issue that clearly and effectively expresses my ideas and demonstrates the evidence supporting my arguments.
  • I am able to engage in a debate on a relevant topic, expressing myself persuasively and logically.

Conversation Session Partner Guide

  • Facilitate the debate between the students . It should be detailed, thorough, relevant, and expressive. Encourage the students to back up their claims as well as using rhetorical devices they have picked up from the news they have been reading and listening to throughout the semester.