Introduction

Qisas Attulaab (Students’ Stories) meets a vital need by offering a specialized resource to strengthen writing skills for elementary and intermediate Arabic learners in the classroom and working independently. Tailored for learners at Novice-High to Intermediate-High proficiency levels, it adopts a flexible and student-centered approach to support Arabic learners in developing and refining their writing abilities.

This book is inspired by the work of students from the University of Kansas and the University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. It is carefully structured to support Arabic learners by beginning with simple, familiar topics—such as self-introductions, family, daily routines, and hobbies—and gradually advancing to more complex themes, including travel and personal experiences. The book aims to create an engaging and practical learning experience through relatable stories.

Reading is a collaborative process where the reader and the text come together to shape a shared understanding of social reality. This book addresses the difficulties foreign language learners often encounter in understanding perspectives different from their own. Incorporating texts drawn from American students’ experiences ensures the material is both relatable and accessible, fostering a smoother path toward developing advanced language skills.

How to Use This Book?

Each chapter follows a structured design to maximize student engagement and language development:

1. Pre-Reading Activities: These exercises prepare students for the topic by activating prior knowledge and introducing essential vocabulary or grammar. Visual aids accompany each story, enhancing comprehension and adding an interactive dimension to learning.

1. During Reading: each chapter’s central text balances comprehension and challenge. Key vocabulary is translated to facilitate understanding. This is followed by activities A and B that guide learners in actively engaging with the text, encouraging critical thinking, and exploring key ideas.
2. Post-Reading Activities: Writing prompts solidify understanding and transition students into writing. Prompts encourage learners to reflect on the story and express their ideas and thoughts in Arabic.

Why Does This Book Matter?

By integrating reading and writing, Qissa Attulaab transforms reading comprehension into a powerful tool for developing writing skills. Authentic texts can often be too challenging for learners and mostly unrelated to their experiences. This book addresses that challenge by presenting stories specifically crafted to align with students’ linguistic levels, progressively building the proficiency needed for confident and independent expression.

This book celebrates diversity by showcasing a rich tapestry of student experiences, fostering a deeper understanding of cultural perspectives. Through these narratives, students can see their voices reflected, inspiring them to connect more meaningfully with the Arabic language and culture. Whether you are a student or an instructor, Qisas Attulaab is designed to support you in your Arabic language learning journey. Let’s begin this path to writing in Arabic together!