RSVP

With the Arab world facing enormous challenges, from violence and war to earthquakes and flooding, it can be difficult to keep up with and process current events. As Arabic teachers, we often ask our students to use the news to practice the language through reading and discussion. While this practice is helpful, it also poses challenges.

In this workshop, Assistant Professor of Arabic at Northern Virginia Community College Sana Hilmi will first highlight controversial topics that educators must keep in mind when selecting news items for language learning to ensure that all students are welcomed and may talk freely in the classroom. She will also share activities, such as introducing novice students to Arabic media, assisting beginners with reading the news, and engaging intermediate students in talking about current events. The workshop will include in-class activities and will feature online discussion boards on Canvas or Blackboard.

Resources:

Reading Current Events in the Arabic Classroom Powerpoint Presentation

Reading Current Events in the Arabic Classroom Activity 1

Reading Current Events in the Arabic Classroom Activity 2