The Language Center

The Language Center organizes courses in foreign languages as well as the Arabic Language . It is equipped with up-to-date audio-visual laboratories. The Center fulfills an essential role in preparing high-achieving university bound students in the various English language proficiency skills for successful study in their challenging degree programs which require advanced English language abilities. This is necessary in view of the diverse educational background of BAU students. Based on their scores in the BAU English Entrance Test, new students are placed in different courses, at different proficiency levels.

Undergraduates may take up to 2-3 semesters to reach freshman English level required for university study. Courses focus on the integration of skills while improving writing, reading comprehension, vocabulary use, listening , conversation practice and grammar structure review. In the audio-visual laboratories, students are encouraged to practice the skills independently , as well as in taught classes. Attendance and participation are essential in these language programs and students may be asked to withdraw or repeat courses if they do not meet attendance requirements.

Grading is on a Pass/Fail system and students' acceptance in their respective majors is pendant upon their success in the Intensive English Language Courses. At the graduate level, proficiency in English or French that is adequate for higher studies must be shown. Students are given 2-3 semesters to reach the respective language level for graduates, which is decided upon through different tests.

TAFL Division
The TAFL Division receives students from various universities from all countries, as well as private students on fellowships granted by their universities, governments and organizations of academic exchange. Students study Arabic language, culture and heritage in its natural environment .
 

TAFL Language Courses
The TAFL Division aims to create a linguistic environment within its classes that is similar to that of native Arabic speakers outside it. Students are thus able to carry what they learn into the environment outside, and interact socially and culturally. To achieve this, and since Arabic is a diaglossic language where the written and spoken language are different, both Modern Standard Arabic and Colloquial Lebanese are taught. Students can join three types of courses at different levels:
1- A one-academic year course ( 2 semesters ). This follows the calendar of Beirut Arab University. Classes begin in October and end in May.
2- A one-semester course (15 weeks ). This follows the calendar of Beirut Arab University. Classes begin in either October or February.
3- Intensive Summer Course (6) weeks. Classes begin in early July and end in mid- August.
Classes are for 16 hours per week, Monday to Thursday.
 

Aim of Courses
Courses aim at enhancing students’ proficiency in the four language skills of Speaking, Listening, Reading and Writing. A rich variety of material is used covering Modern Standard Arabic, Colloquial Lebanese and other subjects.
 

Courses Offered
1- Modern Standard Arabic (MSA)
This variety of Arabic is the official language that any educated Arab understands and uses in all Arab countries. It meets the needs of foreign learners who want to know the culture, religion and heritage of the Arab world. This is taught for 12 hours per week.
2- Lebanese Colloquial Arabic ( LCA)
Through use with locals, the student is exposed to this variety daily. The student uses it in different situations such as shopping, in supermarkets, in transportation, watching movies, listening to songs and in everyday conversations It includes local anecdotes, idioms, proverbs and stories. This is taught for 4 hours per week.
3- Optional Courses
A one-to-one course in the subject area of the student’s choice offers an opportunity for students to explore their particular field of interest. Some universities choose to arrange courses for their students. The TAFL division provides the opportunity for students to attend courses offered by the university with their Lebanese colleagues. Courses vary and among others include Media, Sociology, History, Literature etc.
 

Levels and Skills
Based on a placement test, students are divided into the following three levels: Beginners, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each skill at one of the four levels has certain objectives to be attained.
 

Main Textbooks
- Brustad, al-Batal al-Tonsi, Alif Baa: An Introduction to Arabic Letters and Sounds, 2nd ed.
- Brustad, al-Batal, al-Tonsi, Al Kitaab fii Ta’allum al-‘Arabiyya: Part One, 2nd. Ed.
- Brustad, al-Batal,al-Tonsi, Al Kitaab fii Ta’allum al-‘Arabiyya: Part Two
- Brustad, al-Batal, al-Tonsi, Al-Kitaab fii Ta’allum al-‘Arabiyyah: Part Three.
- Wehr, Hans, A Dictionary of Modern Written Arabic, Beirut, Librairie du Liban and London, MacDonald & Evans Ltd.
 

Teaching Staff
The Center’s TAFL Division has a highly accomplished team of teachers specialized in TAFL. They can tailor courses to suit students’ language and other needs.
 

Activities
Cultural activities as well as excursions to historical, cultural and tourist sites in Beirut and throughout Lebanon are available.
 

Accomodation
The Center will provide assistance in finding living accommodation .
 

Application
Application deadlines for each Fall semester is July, 30, and for each Spring semester is November 30. Application deadline for the Summer Intensive Program is June, 30.


HOW TO REGISTER
Download the appliction
FEES
Tuition: $ 2000
Extra Expenses: Student should budget for transportation, additional traveling during their stay, accommodation, books, meals and field trips outside Beirut.
FOR MORE INFORMATION:
TEL: +( 9611) 300110 EXT: 2366, 2066.
FAX: + (9611) 704613
EMAIL: langc@bau.edu.lb
WEBSITE: www.bau.edu.lb/languageceter.php