Swahili Beginners

In this course, the four elements of basic language learning will be utilized: emphasis will be given to speaking and listening, but there will also be some reading (translation) and writing (composing). Explanation and practice of spoken Swahili in class aims at building vocabulary and sentence structures to a basic survival knowledge of the language in its cultural context. Ability to use the dictionary and reflect upon the language are parallel aims.

In addition to the course textbook, there will also be a selection of audio and video material to accompany specific sessions where listening and viewing is a priority (some audio material will be accompanied with pictures). Pictures, game cards, and classroom activities are all part of the Swahili learning experience. By the end of the course, students will have covered basic grammatical constructions and acquired an essential working vocabulary allowing them to communicate within a limited range of situations in which learners are likely to find themselves. The language is presented together with the cultural context in which it is used so that learners are able to appreciate such things as appropriateness and linguistic etiquette when interaction takes place in the target language.