I know it’s a bit off topic but…using resources outside the classroom was mentioned…if it’s any help these are some I am using…
ARABIC VIDEOS WITH SUBTITLES
An Arabic News Video Clip Website. It is run out of DC with the goal of improving relations with the west.
It's mostly political clips from ME news stations but has English subtitles!
I cover up the subtitles, listen to a paragraph and try to decipher as much as I can. Then look at the subtitles and see how well I did.
I like it because it is generally discussing ideas. Getting to the ‘Ideas’ level is highly valuable for rapport building with indigs; and it is real Arabic speakers talking to you at speeds that you will experience in the ME. Also it's whole real sentances and paragraphs.
COST = FREE
http://www.memritv.org
NOTE: just ignore any requests for passwords
AUTOMATED ONLINE MEMORIZATION PROGRAM
This is a great website I use for memorization. It uses the "Leitner" memory system and is full automated. I have undertaken large amounts of memorization before with A&P at vasity. This IMHO makes it a hell of a lot easier and a hell of a lot more sustainable.
There are other excellent features as well.
WEBSITE
http://www.flashcardexchange.com/
BRIEF ON LEITNER SYSTEM
http://www.flashcardexchange.com/docs/leitner
COST = $20
1500 ARABIC WORDS AUDIO DATABASE
Lastly I am using the Declan System. You get the audio and written of 1500 commonly used MSA words. I imagine the 6 month program has something similar, but hey maybe it will help?
COST = $36
http://www.declan-software.com/arabic/index.htm
Hope this helped someone…
I have some Arabic Childrens TV websites somewhere with subtitles as well. Great for the beginner user as well as some Pop TV stuff also with subtitles better for the intermediate learner.
S