This course and the following one, LA484, constitute an integrated study of the culture, history, and geography of the Arabic-speaking world. Readings, lectures, discussions, and audio-visual materials encompass this civilization's representative artistic and intellectual accomplishments, its present-day political institutions, economy, and popular culture. In addition, the courses focus on the values and attitudes, the customs and traditions, and the social structures of Arabic people. At the same time, cadets continue to develop greater proficiency in Arabic. Graded work may include giving oral presentations, writing short essays or preparing a term paper. A majority of the work is done in Arabic.
