GCSE Arabic Edexcel

This subject is broken down into 29 topics in 2 modules:

  1. Vocabulary 14 topics
  2. Grammar 15 topics
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This page was last modified on 28 September 2024.

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Arabic

Vocabulary

High-Frequency Language

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High-Frequency Language

High-Frequency Language

  • Start with familiarising yourself with the Arabic alphabet. Recognising the different letters in their various forms – initial, medial, final and isolated – is a crucial first step.

  • Concentrate on mastering the sound of each letter and how each sound varies depending on vowels used along it. Arabic depends heavily on its consonant sounds.

  • Learn the most common words and phrases in Arabic. These include greetings, questions, expressions for politeness, basic verbs, and simple nouns.

  • Use flashcards to help with memorisation. Write the Arabic word on one side and the English translation on the other. Review them daily.

  • Pay particular attention to cognates. These are words that share a common origin in Arabic and English, which can help accelerate vocabulary acquisition.

  • Practice is key. Use newly learnt words and phrases as often as possible. This applies not only to speaking but also to writing. Keep a daily journal in Arabic if possible.

  • Make use of language apps and online resources. They can offer immediate feedback and help with pronunciation.

  • Try to understand context. A word can have different meanings depending on where in a sentence it is used. Understanding the context can aid comprehension and avoid miscommunication.

  • Watch and listen to authentic Arabic content such as news broadcasts, films or podcasts. It offers insights into colloquial speech and cultural nuances.

  • Grammar is important too. Once you understand the basic structures of Arabic sentences and how verbs and nouns are formed, vocabulary learning becomes easier.

  • Ensure a steady progression. Start with basic words, then gradually incorporate phrases and idioms.

  • Don't forget to review and reinforce your learning. Revisit the words you've learned, their meanings, and their use in sentences regularly.

  • Remember, speed doesn't always equal success. Learning at a pace that suits you is most effective. Pursue consistency rather than speed.

  • Make small goals and celebrate when you reach them. This will keep your motivation high and make the learning process enjoyable.

Use these tips as a guideline to mastering high-frequency language and enhance your language acquisition prowess in Arabic.

Course material for Arabic, module Vocabulary, topic High-Frequency Language

Arabic

Grammar

The Vocalisation System (R)

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The Vocalisation System (R)

The Vocalisation System

  • The Arabic language features a vocalisation system that heavily relies on diacritical marks.
  • These diacritical marks are also known as harakat or 'movements'.
  • Harakat aid in pronunciation and grammatical interpretation.

Understanding Harakat

  • There are three primary harakat: Fathah (ــَـ), Kasrah (ــِـ), and Dammah (ــُـ).
  • Fathah is represented by a small diagonal line over the letter and produces an 'a' sound.
  • Kasrah appears as a small diagonal line under the letter and yields an 'i' sound.
  • Dammah shows as a small curl over the letter and renders an 'u' sound.

Additional Vocalisation Marks

  • Two Fathahs, Kasrahs, or Dammahs, collectively known as Tanween, signify the indefinite noun form.
  • Sukun (ــْـ), represented by a small circle over the letter, signifies that there is no vowel sound after the letter.
  • Shaddah (ــّـ), illustrated by a small w shape above the letter, indicates that the letter should be doubled or stressed.

Vocalisation Marks and Grammar

  • Vocalisation marks are indispensable features of the Arabic grammatical system.
  • Marks differ depending on the noun's role in a sentence – subject, object or possession.
  • Correct placement of vocalisation marks can significantly change a sentence's meaning.

Vocalisation in Speech and Writing

  • In modern Arabic speech and informal writing, harakat are often omitted.
  • However, they are crucial in Quranic, classical, formal Arabic writing, and teaching materials for pronunciation guidance and grammatical correctness.

Important Tips

  • Familiarising yourself with the vocalisation system is essential for learning proper Arabic pronunciation and grammar.
  • Practice reading and writing with harakat to ensure accurate comprehension and communication.
  • Understanding how each vocalisation mark impacts the Arabic word is crucial for fluency.

Course material for Arabic, module Grammar, topic The Vocalisation System (R)

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