Student Speak: Is Arabic taught well or just for the sake of it?

Aryan Murali Dharan, The Millennium School, Dubai

In many schools Arabic teachers do not even know how to communicate with students. We are forced to memorise answers instead of understanding the language. However, exams are quite easy. Many a time, teachers rush through the portions. Due to this we are forced to go for tuitions in Arabic even in Grade 1. As we go to higher classes Arabic becomes a burden since there is more to learn without even understanding the basics.

Nafisath Thasnim Aslam, International Indian school, Ajman

Arabic classes are held merely for the sake of it. Conducting just two, in most cases one period a week proves to be insufficient. This, in turn, forces parents, especially those who have never learned Arabic, to send their wards for tuition. Arabic is just a second-language and its marks are not included in the annual scores. Learning Arabic would have been hassle free if schools emphasised its importance rather than featuring it as a secondary subject.

Mohammad Mubasher, Progressive English School, Sharjah

I had been learning Arabic for almost 10 years. Some of my friends memorise answers just to pass and get promoted to the next grade. I strongly believe that this isn’t a good approach in learning a language. In fact, none of us have a notion of speaking Arabic, which shows it is being taught only to help learn the basics, rather than mastering the language.

Ajna Sultana, Emirates English Speaking School, Dubai

Most of my classmates don’t enjoy studying Arabic. Why? Because it’s hard to grasp it is taught just ‘for the sake of it’. The teachers employed are despicable at English. They just can’t communicate with students. We usually comment that in Arabic periods we lose all our English grammar, too. Then they make exams harder and introduce new things.

Rejinald Joseph, Progressive English School, Sharjah

I have been learning Arabic for last seven years. I believe teachers show dedication and sincerity. They help us grasp the language quickly and develop further interest in the subject. Colourful textbooks and workbooks also add to the learning atmosphere. Apart from all this, the various activities in textbooks such as puzzles and crosswords help the pupils learn the language.

Nathania Moncy John, The Kindergarten Starters, Dubai

I have the best teacher for Arabic in my school. Being a Grade 1 student, I learn basic oral communication and writing in Arabic through my school Arabic teacher. Regular Worksheets at school and homework help enhance my knowledge in Arabic. Being raised in UAE, I feel it is very important to learn the native language and understand the culture of UAE.