This course is for non-speakers of the Abiriba [/E`biriba`/] language; or those seeking to advance their mastery of the language from any level. The context of the course will expand and tilt towards the Abiriba culture in whose heart lies the language. For this reason, the language will cover at different levels Abiriba cultural traditions, names, greetings, and oral traditions, as well as the use of myths and expressions. It will cover vocabulary, along with everyday conversational words and phrases.
LEARNING OUTCOMES
Learners advance in the four major skills in language learning: comprehension, speaking, writing, and reading. At the Beginning level, learners will be introduced to phonetics, vocabulary, and sentence building. The intermediate level continues to expand their understanding of the history, culture and customs of the Abiriba people, as expressed in the language and compare it with their own; while advancing their grasp of the basic structures of the Language. Learners continue to advance mastery of Abiriba language in the Advanced level through by transiting in fluency in reading and verbal expression.
METHOD OF INSTRUCTION
Instruction is given virtually through video and audio sessions. Use of text will be introduced when appropriate. The instructor will assign projects to learners as part of their evaluation to measure attainment of language goal(s) at each level. Oral and written presentations will be allowed to create humor during classes. Communicative approach will be adopted while maintaining highly engaging class sessions. The instructor will have learners do pronunciation exercises, learn songs, and translate from their L1 to Abiriba and vice versa. Good listening devices will aid learners filter sounds during class. Class sessions will incorporate a virtual practice station for building language skill. Since the language cannot be separated from its people, cultural appreciation through virtual tours will be explored.
Students are expected to attend all classes. At the end of the course, a final test will be done to ensure goals and objectives have been met. Time and form of the final assessment will be communicated to students before time.