When learning a new language, immersing yourself in the associated culture can provide you with opportunities to learn from native speakers. Our Arabic immersion program allows you to travel to a new country to learn the Arabic language. Here are six ways you can make the most of your immersion program:
- Embrace the Culture
Traveling to Cairo for an Arabic immersion program allows you to get to know a new culture. While there, you can study the history behind local celebrations and participate in festivities. Trying their food enables you to interact with artisans and find new recipes to make later. Learn proper etiquette when speaking to people or sharing meals with others to make your daily interactions more impactful.
- Speak Arabic as Often as Possible
Speaking the language whenever possible allows you to learn vocabulary and syntax more easily. It will train your mouth to pronounce words correctly and creates opportunities for fellow speakers to correct your errors. Avoid speaking your native tongue with classmates or when you’re out in the city so you can get used to the local language. Listening to and speaking with your colleagues in Arabic helps you apply your knowledge in everyday conversations.
- Build Relationships With Native Speakers
Arabic immersion programs encourage you to build relationships with native speakers who can answer your language questions and explain concepts you might need help understanding. They can also introduce you to parts of the culture you may not learn about while in class. This allows you to gain a deeper understanding of the cultural significance of Arabic as you learn the language. Arabic in Cairo program leaders take you to different historic sites to learn more about the country and the language.
- Watch Arabic News and Other Media
Watching local news and media helps you learn more about different dialects, speech patterns, and new words. Movies and TV shows allow you to hear Arabic in everyday settings and catch colloquial expressions and patterns you might not see in a textbook. Knowing what’s happening in the country also allows you to understand the circumstances individuals around you are dealing with, promoting more authentic and empathetic conversations.
- Practice Reading, Writing, and Speaking
Practicing reading and writing enables you to read and understand directions, street names, and other key information as you travel. Practicing the strokes of each letter helps you remember them more easily, allowing them to flow from your hand as you write. Write journal entries in Arabic describing what you did during the day to practice forming letters, words, and phrases.
- Learn the Local Dialect
Arabic, like other languages, has many different dialects depending on what part of the world you’re in. Immersing yourself in a culture means learning the accent and dialect of the area you’re visiting. This helps native speakers understand you when you’re speaking and makes your daily interactions more effective. If you need to know how something is pronounced in a specific dialect, like Egyptian Arabic, ask your immersion program leaders or one of your classmates for help.
Enroll in an Arabic Immersion Program
If you’re interested in learning Arabic, an immersion program allows you to learn the language and culture from native speakers. You can learn from everyday interactions and get to know the people around you when you understand the local dialect. Our team at Arabic in Cairo can help you find a study abroad program that aligns with your interests. Contact us today to enroll in an Arabic language course or immersion program.
