Learn about the tasks of an Arabic language teacher: a journey towards language mastery

Arabic language requires a lot of effort to be learned by students, especially non-native speakers, and therefore by teachers as well, because it has many features that make it different from others in all branches of the language, starting from sounds to sentence structure rules, so it is necessary to know the tasks of the Arabic language teacher to teach the Arabic language with the required efficiency, in this article we will talk about the tasks of the Arabic language teacher and what are the best ways to teach Arabic language skills.

Important rules in the Arabic language

The Arabic language is considered one of the richest languages ​​in the world in all linguistic aspects. It is rich in rules that branch out into various branches of the language and in different fields as well. We will mention to you some of the main rules in the different linguistic branches:

Each branch in the Arabic language is divided into several main sections.

In phonetics

• Diacritics : Arabic script uses diacritics (small marks above or below letters) to indicate short vowels, emphasis, and letter distinctions. These marks are essential for correct pronunciation and understanding (e.g., the letter ف (فا) becomes ق (قَاف) with one dot below).
• Distinctive consonants : The Arabic language is characterized by unique consonants that are pronounced from different places in the mouth and are not present in most European languages, such as the letter ain (ع), which is pronounced through the throat, and the letters dad and tha, which are pronounced by touching the edge of the tongue to the upper incisors of the mouth, but differ in the end, which changes the sound, but they are similar in the exits of the sounds. There are many of these letters in the Arabic language, and given the unique phonetic system in the Arabic language, you will know why it is considered difficult for those whose native language is not Arabic.
• Stress : Arabic stress, unlike English, is not based on the strength of the syllable but on the length of the vowel and the pitch of the sound. Mastering stress helps the clarity and rhythm of words.

In grammar

Most Arabic words follow a root system of three or four consonants, and additional vowels and consonants are added to create different words related to this meaning, or what are known as derivatives. For example, a word like “visit” is the root of the word, from which we can derive the word “visitor” which is the active participle, and also “yazuur” which is the verb, and in the plural it is “ziyarat” or “zawar” or “yazurun”. Despite the difference according to gender, number and sentence, the root is still the same.

In the branch of grammar in the Arabic language, it is necessary to focus on some basics, including:

Cases of nouns (nominative, accusative, genitive):

The endings of Arabic nouns change based on their grammatical role in the sentence (nominative, accusative, genitive). This depends on their position in the sentence, the context, and the tools, letters, or verbs that precede them.

• Rules for determining the nominative, accusative and genitive cases of nouns, pronouns and adjectives.
• Using case markers (declension) such as damma, fatha, and kasra.
• Case changes into different grammatical roles depending on the position in the sentence and the grammatical case (subject, object, possessive, etc.).

Verb conjugation:

• Tenses : Arabic has past, present, and future tenses. Unlike English, it does not have a perfect tense, so expressing completed actions may require additional wording.
• Conditions : Arabic verbs have different cases such as demonstrative (statement of facts), imperative (commands), and conditional (expression of possibility or condition).
• Verb conjugation : Verbs are conjugated based on case, tense, gender, and number. This may seem complicated at first, but practice helps.

Pronouns:

• Types of pronouns: The types of pronouns in the Arabic language are somewhat similar to those in English in terms of types, as there are subject pronouns, object pronouns, second person pronouns, etc. However, it is important to note that subject pronouns in the Arabic language, unlike English, are often optional in the Arabic language, such as “I” or “you,” because the verb’s conjugation often indicates and clarifies the subject.
• Gender and Number : In Arabic, pronouns have distinct forms, whether masculine/feminine or singular/plural.

Definite and indefinite:

• Using the definite article al to indicate the definition of something.
• Rules for using indefinite nouns without the definite article.
• Exceptions and special cases.

Sentence construction rules:

• Rules for constructing sentences in their various forms (affirmative, negative, and interrogative): The Arabic language generally follows the order of verb, subject, and object, but it can be flexible to clarify the meaning more, in addition to the branches, especially in literature, which often breaks the grammatical rules in sentence construction, but only to convey the meaning better. However, verbs often come first to direct the focus.
• Noun-verb agreement: Nouns and verbs must agree in gender (masculine/feminine) and number (singular/dual/plural). This ensures grammatical harmony. Nouns can also change depending on the case, such as the noun with the genitive and the noun with the genitive.
• Dual: The Arabic language has a unique dual number to refer to exactly two things of any gender or type, although its use is less common in modern dialects.

In literature

Arabic literature is considered one of the most famous branches of the Arabic language . Arab writers and authors had a great impact on enriching world literature, due to their linguistic eloquence first and even their metaphorical beauty. There is an entire branch in the Arabic language that specializes in rhetoric and rhetoric. Let us get to know some of its features:

• Figurative Language : The Arabic language is rich in metaphors, proverbs, and verbal images that add depth and meaning to communication. Understanding these expressions goes beyond literal translation.
• Cultural References : Many terms and expressions are rooted in Arab culture and history. Knowing these references helps you understand the full meaning behind the phrase.

Types of literature in the Arabic language:

• Poetry : Arabic poetry relies on figurative language, especially metaphors and similes . Poems in the pre-Islamic era often used vivid images to describe nature and war, in addition to flirting, satire and pride. Poets were influential and had their place in the Arab royal court for a long time, even after the Islamic period.
• Prose : Figurative language or imagery also adds depth and beauty to prose works. The Qur’an itself uses metaphors to convey spiritual concepts. Literature, essays, literary criticism, contemplative prose, oratory, maqamat, epistles, and biographies, which highlight personal, historical, and cultural significance

Among the most famous characteristics of rhetoric in Arabic literature:

• Metaphor : It is the cornerstone of Arabic rhetoric and speech . You will see metaphor applied in most Arabic texts as a representation of one thing with another to clarify an idea and create vivid images.
• Simile : In similes, “like” or “as” are used to compare two things. For example: The warrior fought like a lion. This is a classic example that highlights the warrior’s bravery.

• Personification or personification : It is giving inanimate objects human qualities and breathing life into them. For example, the desert whispers its secrets in the wind, and in it the desert is depicted as a person whispering and having a voice, which is a metaphor for the vast space.

• Metaphor : It involves using a related word to represent something else or to indicate something related to it, such as using the word crown, which may mean the king or the rule itself.
• Exaggeration : Exaggeration is used to emphasize an event or a characteristic. For example, I waited for you a thousand years. This is certainly not true, but it expresses the length of the waiting period or it may express the intensity of longing.
• Metaphor : It is a hidden and indirect way of expressing something, often through suggestion rather than direct statement, such as saying “night has closed.” Night does not actually close, but the metaphor has portrayed it as someone who has gone to sleep, or closed his door.
• Alliteration and rhyme : They are responsible for the musical tone in the literary text, through the manipulation of words , using words that sound similar in pronunciation for effect. Alliteration is the use of two words that sound similar but have different meanings, while rhyme is the use of two words that sound similar in the final pronunciation, and this can add humor or create a sense of music.

Arabic language teacher duties required

Due to the many branches of the Arabic language and their interconnectedness, it is difficult to focus on one aspect or one branch of the language and neglect the rest. Most students believe that it is difficult to focus on all these aspects and rules and learn them. In fact, students often become distracted and all the branches overlap with each other, causing confusion and mixing between each other.

This can be true in certain situations. If a student cannot understand the grammar rules correctly or know the difference between them, it may result in difficulty in understanding the rest of the branches as well. However, on the other hand, this may be a positive feature because all the branches are interconnected and complement each other. If you understand one branch in a way that will help you understand the rest or consolidate the information in several different ways.

To help students hone their Arabic language skills, it is necessary to adhere to the basic duties of the Arabic language teacher, including:

• Creating a positive learning environment : The learning environment is the most important task on the list of necessary tasks for an Arabic language teacher, by creating a welcoming and enjoyable atmosphere that promotes a love of the Arabic language, in which dynamic and interactive teaching methods are used to motivate students using methods that suit their interests, and encouraging a cooperative learning environment where students feel comfortable practicing the Arabic language.

• Focus on the basics : One of the primary tasks of the Arabic language teacher is to first introduce students to the Arabic language, what it is, what its basics and branches are, the main topics in each branch, and what its importance and linguistic status are.

• Vocabulary and Terminology : Vocabulary and learning terminology are the first forms of exposure to the language, and this can even be unconsciously through a movie or song or even listening to conversations between native speakers. One of the most important tasks of the Arabic language teacher is to teach students vocabulary consciously and unconsciously and entertainingly by igniting the curiosity of knowledge and enjoyment in students, especially in the beginning, to continue their journey.

• Gradual introduction to grammar : Once children have a basic vocabulary, introduce grammar gradually, focusing on practical applications rather than overwhelming them with complex concepts.

• Phonetics and Pronunciation : Pay close attention to correct pronunciation from the beginning. Use clear pronunciation models, tongue twisters, and mirror practice.

• Writing practice : Incorporate age-appropriate writing activities such as sorting pictures, completing simple sentences, and writing short stories. This reinforces vocabulary and grammar skills.

• Games and Activities : Incorporate interactive games, songs, and activities that make learning Arabic fun. This could include using flashcards, matching games, role-playing scenarios, or even creating short plays.

• Movement and Music : Incorporate songs, chants, and physical movements to reinforce vocabulary and make learning more kinesthetic.

• Positive reinforcement : Encourage students to celebrate their small victories and encourage them to see mistakes as opportunities for learning. A positive classroom environment is crucial.

• Start with spoken Arabic : Students need to see the practical side and feel the importance of this language, so make the language more relevant to the students. You can start with basic greetings, conversational phrases, and everyday vocabulary relevant to the students’ lives. This builds confidence in using the language for real communication .

• Storytelling : Presenting captivating and interesting stories and folk tales in Arabic, preferably related to culture or customs, to attract students’ interest. This exposes students to correct pronunciation, sentence structure, and cultural references.

• Integrate cultural elements : Integrate Arabic music, art, holidays, and traditions into lessons. This helps students understand the language within its cultural context, making it more meaningful and relatable. You can organize field trips, cultural events, or virtual experiences to introduce students to the Arabic-speaking world.

• Real-Life Connections : Look for opportunities to connect Arabic learning to students’ real-life interests. Do they like animals? Learn the names of animals in Arabic. Are they interested in sports? Learn vocabulary related to the sports they like.

• Parental involvement : It is also the job of the Arabic language teacher to guide parents on what they should do to help their children develop in the language, such as encouraging parents to practice basic Arabic with their children at home. Sharing learning resources and activities.

• Technology Integration : One of the most important tasks and skills of an Arabic language teacher is his ability to use technology, such as online resources such as educational apps, games, and child-friendly websites to supplement learning in the classroom.

• Using a variety of methods that cover all different learning styles : Catering to different learning styles is an essential task for an Arabic language teacher, by integrating auditory, visual and kinetic activities to meet the needs of each student by using images, videos and educational applications to keep students visually engaged.

• Enhancing individual skills in students : By assessing each student’s individual learning styles, strengths and weaknesses, the Arabic language teacher’s role is to adapt teaching methods, materials and pace to meet the diverse needs of students. Providing individual support, guidance and feedback to help students progress at their own pace.

• Review is the cornerstone : Review is an essential part of the Arabic language teacher’s duties, so make sure to review and reinforce previously learned vocabulary, grammar and concepts on a regular basis. This can also be done by incorporating different review activities, such as tests, games and training exercises, and encouraging students to practice and apply their Arabic language skills on an ongoing basis inside and outside the classroom.

Arabic Language Skills Evaluation Criteria

Just as it is important to deliver information and explanation to the student in a way that suits him, and to review and build the appropriate educational plan for him, one of the tasks of the Arabic language teacher that should not be neglected is evaluation. Evaluating the student’s performance and the extent of his improvement in the subject is evidence of the teacher’s success and the educational plan he uses.

Here are some ways and criteria by which a teacher can evaluate students’ Arabic language skills:

• Conduct regular tests and activities during the lesson and take notes on each student and how they perform, to assess students' progress in vocabulary, grammar, listening, speaking, reading and writing. Use these comprehensive assessments to identify areas of strength and weakness, and adjust your teaching approach accordingly.

• Conducting individual or small group interviews and oral conversations to assess students' speaking and listening skills. Pronunciation, fluency, use of vocabulary, and ability to understand and respond to questions are assessed . Assessment forms can be used to provide detailed feedback and track progress over time.

• Students should be given regular writing assignments, such as short compositions, essays or creative writing pieces, to assess students’ written Arabic language skills, which helps to evaluate their ability to organize ideas, use appropriate grammar and vocabulary, and communicate effectively in written form. In this case, the focus is on providing detailed feedback on areas of writing such as sentence structure, spelling and linguistic coherence.

• Have students read texts, passages or stories in Arabic, then answer comprehension questions or demonstrate their understanding through activities. Assess their ability to extract and understand meaning, identify key details, and interact with and analyse content. The complexity of reading materials can be gradually increased as students progress.

• Listening comprehension can be assessed by introducing students to authentic Arabic audio or video recordings and asking them to answer questions or complete tasks related to the content. Assess their ability to understand main ideas, follow the flow of conversation, and interpret contextual cues. Gradually increase the difficulty of listening material to challenge students.

• One of the tasks of the Arabic language teacher is to design comprehensive assessment tasks that require students to demonstrate their language skills in a comprehensive manner. This is done by integrating multiple methods to assess the four basic skills (listening, speaking, reading, writing). Try to be as creative as possible at this stage. These assessments can include games, interactive activities, and even music or stories to motivate students to activate their minds.

• Another task of the Arabic language teacher is to assess the students’ overall language proficiency and their ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios, such as knowing the different cultures of Arabic-speaking countries, knowing what they do in their daily lives and how they interact with the life situations they face and using the language in a more enjoyable way, and it would be preferable if they interacted with native speakers.

How does Madrasa.com excel in Arabic language skills?

Madrasa.com is the leading Arabic platform in the Middle East for private lessons, where you will find all the features you need in various educational subjects for all levels and ages. In addition, you will find various educational packages that will suit all budgets, with detailed plans according to the student’s level and need.

Almadrasah.com excels in Arabic language skills for several reasons, including:

• Teachers : Almadrasah.com is keen to choose first-class teachers to meet the needs of students in all aspects. Any teacher at Almadrasah.com must be well-versed in the tasks of an Arabic language teacher, both theoretically and practically. Therefore, experience and competence are required.

• Language : The Madrasa.com platform is considered the first Arabic platform in various fields and subjects, but it must be mentioned that it is an Arabic platform before anything else, so you will not find anyone better than our teachers to teach the Arabic language who are native speakers of the language, in addition to their professional competence.

• Adaptive Learning : One of the most important features of Almadrasah.com is the use of adaptive learning methods to continuously monitor students’ performance and adjust the content, pace, teaching strategies and overall educational plan accordingly. This personalized approach ensures that each student receives the targeted support and practice they need to improve their Arabic language skills.

• Guidance : At School.com it is important to provide students with detailed, individualized feedback on their performance, highlighting their strengths, areas for improvement, and actionable steps to make progress. This feedback is accompanied by personalized recommendations for supplemental learning resources, practice exercises, or study strategies to meet the specific needs of each student.

• Performance Assessment : Madrasa.com offers a variety of assessment tools, such as interactive tests , oral interviews, written assignments, and reading and listening comprehension checks, to comprehensively assess students’ progress in all aspects of the language. These assessments can be seamlessly integrated into the learning experience, providing real-time, actionable feedback and personalized recommendations.

Visit our website, you will find all the information you need about our curricula, methodology and teaching approach, read ratings and reviews and learn what other students are saying about their experience with our website, Almadrasah.com, with a special focus on the reviews received from parents of students, especially non-Arabic speakers , contact us directly through the website where you can inquire about our teaching methods in addition to knowing the tasks of the Arabic language teacher that should be available in the chosen teacher.