In DESC we teach Arabic language from Yr 7 to Year 12 for native and non native Arabs as part of the normal school curriculum. The Arabic programmes concentrate on developing the ability to use the language effectively for purposes of practical communication, through the topic areas studied.
Students form an understanding of, and posses a positive attitude towards the culture and civilisation of Arabic speakers.
Most importantly, they enjoy increased confidence using the four language skills. It will be taught through application of the Ministry of Arabic curriculum and other required topics taught through the application of new techniques. We aim to motivate students learning and the ability to use Arabic to think, learn, communicate and develop critical skills. Both National and non-National Arabic students will gain some proficiency in the mechanics of oral and written Arabic.
The Arabic programme is presented in defined topic areas. These topics are divided into basic and higher levels for:
- Arabic Native Speakers
- Arabic Non Native Speak
The teaching of Arabic Language in Dubai English Speaking Collage follows the rules and regulations of the Ministry of Education and kHDA in the UAE. Arabic Language is an obligatory subject for all students regardless of nationality.
The school’s philosophy
In studying Arabic pupils develop skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing. It enables them to express them-selves and communicate in Arabic-speaking society. Using this knowledge pupil can choose and adapt what they say and write in different situations. The Arabic curriculum is therefore based on the material that helps with day-to-day living in the UAE. The curriculum helps promote a deep interest and respect for Arabic culture and traditions. The study of Arabic helps pupils understand how language works by looking at its patterns, structures and origins.
Arabic 1 and Arabic 2
According to the Ministry of Education regulations and the KHDA, students are defined by reference to their passport as being or a non native Arabic speaker.
A student who is a native Arabic speaker will take Arabic 1
A student who is a non-native Arabic speaker will take Arabic 2
Arabic 1 is taught entirely in Arabic.
Arabic 2 is taught in Arabic and English.
How the subject is delivered
The school follows the Ministry of Education’s guidance as the basis for teaching. The programme provides guidance on how the subject will be taught. In Arabic 2 the Ministry’s curriculum is supplement by the school where this will better meet the individual needs of a student.
The aims during Key Stage 3
To learn to speak confidently and listen to what others have to say; to begin to read and write independently with enthusiasm; to use language to explore their own experiences.
To form and broaden Arabic vocabulary for confident and fluent communication within the country (e.g. asking one’s way, shopping, communicating with other children in Arabic, understanding the answers to one’s questions, enjoying the rich cultural life in the UAE – theatres, museums, and exhibitions).
Secondary Curriculum
Year 10 -12
Arabic 1
MOE books, for all Arab students
Arabic 2 (Edexcel GCSE Arabic)
Optional for non Arab students
Assessment, recording and reporting procedures
Assessment, recording and reporting follow the school’s assessment, recording and reporting policies.
Islamic Studies Curriculum at DESC
Islamic studies curriculum at DESC is based on a comprehensive 13-year Ministry of Education curriculum (Studies in Islam). The curriculum contains broad aspect of Islam based on the Quran and authentic Hadeeth (Sayings of the Prophet (PBUH). The topics in the curriculum are laid out in a systematic manner to suit the teaching needs in an International School. Topics are selected based on age, grade and learning levels of each grade. Students learn the selected topics in depth as they move on to their higher levels so that they would grow up with good understanding of Islamic teachings, manners, values and morals. All lessons are followed by Quizzes and assessments.
The students learn a part of the following topics each year:
Recitation of the Quran |
Learning to recite the Qur’an in proper way. |
Memorisation of Quran |
Memorising few Surahs (Chapters)/ Aayahs (Verses) of the Quran. |
Hadeeth |
Learning few sayings of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and memorise them. |
Aqeedah |
Creed - Learning about the Pillars of Faith in detail. (Allah, His Angels, His Books, |
Ibadah |
Worship – Learning about the Pillars of Worship in detail. |
Akhlaaq |
Islamic Manners and Etiquette. |
Seerah |
The Biography of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). |
Qisas min al Quran |
The Stories from the Quran. |
Fiqh |
Islamic Jurisprudence. Learning about the rulings on different issues related |
History of Islam |
The Muslim World after the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). |
Aims & Objectives
To provide the highest quality of Islamic education possible in an Islamic environment.
- To encourage them to be independent and motivated.
- To enable Students demonstrate a very good understanding of the Islamic faith.
- To practice Islam where appropriate what they learn from studying Islam and show their understanding of Islam.
- To challenge them to reach their greatest potential so they will be productive and responsible members of the society.
- To create a broad understanding of Islamic thought in the Muslim students, including major eras, figures and concepts throughout Islamic history
- To understand the relevance and impact of Islam on Modern World and reflect upon key messages in relation to their own lives and experiences.