Master exam - 07

Master’s Degrees— How to answer the exam

Teaching Arabic as a Foreign Language (TAFL)

      Exam N° 7

1. For the foreign language teacher to serve as a "problem solver", they should possess three major competencies. They should be (a) an excellent language user, (b) fairly aware of knowledge about language (linguistics), and (c) pedagogically competent. Explain this statement with reference to the teaching of the reading skill.

-----Discuss how a foreign language teacher, who is proficient in the language, knowledgeable about linguistics, and skilled in teaching methods, can effectively teach reading skills. Provide examples of how these competencies help in addressing challenges and enhancing students' reading abilities.

2. The importance of applied linguistics in general and English language teaching in particular is perceived by almost all pedagogues and educationists. Gone are the days when a postgraduate or a graduate used to join the teaching profession simply because he or she possessed good knowledge in English literature or even language. In the modern educational setting, the English teacher is supposed to be versed in linguistics or applied English linguistics in order to prove himself as an effective English teacher. (Khan, 2011, P.105) Explain this statement with reference to the teaching of the speaking skill.

-----Explain why a background in linguistics or applied linguistics is important for teaching English effectively, especially in teaching speaking skills. Discuss how knowledge of linguistics contributes to better teaching strategies and improved student outcomes in developing speaking abilities.