Arabic and Islamic Education

Arabic (Arabs)
We prepare our students for success in the 21st century and align it with the UAE national agenda as well as prepare them for effectively communicating and growing in both knowledge and linguistic skills. We offer our students the Ministry of Education curriculum for Arabic speaking (Arabic A). The four areas of language, writing, reading, speaking and listening, are developed using different activities, games and interactions.

Arabic (Non Arabs)
The Arabic Language Department at Al Salam Private School is committed to preparing graduates who are competent communicators in written and spoken Modern Standard Arabic, through lively and engaging lessons that are highly interactive and purposeful. With the growing importance of the Arabic language locally and internationally, it is essential for the non-Arabs to learn all about the Arabic language and culture to allow them to communicate effectively within the Arab region and outside the region. Moreover, through the years students will have a unique opportunity to appreciate cultural richness and diversity of the United Arab Emirates. We offer the Ministry of Education curriculum for Non-Native Arabic speaking (Arabic B), from Year 7 to Year 12.

In Years 9 to 12, The Ministry of Education curriculum and study plan focuses on further developing the 4 areas of language, by introducing Arabic poetry from Ancient times which also has unique terminologies and expressions, so that students can appreciate and value the beauty of the language and how the language can be used in different forms and styles to enable them to express themselves fully.
The curriculum of Classic Arabic aims to give further insight into writing skills and develop the grammar and vocabulary of students to enable them to communicate effectively in daily life interactions in a stage beyond their school years and prepare them for the future.

Students are given a chance to practice their Arabic language skills through different activities such as The National Day, Arabic Day, International Day, Arabic calligraphy as well as the daily morning assembly. All these activities are conducted to also promote a strong civic sense and appreciation for the culture and heritage of the United Arab Emirates.

Islamic Education

Islamic Education is taught to all Muslim students from Years 7 to 12. The course content covers the six main areas of Islamic Education as prescribed by the KHDA:
• The Holy Qur’an and Hadeeth (Prophet’s sayings)
Students develop a deep understanding of the two primary sources of Islamic law. He/She learns about the development of the Qur’an and Hadith sciences and appreciate their central importance in every aspect of a Muslim’s life.

• Islamic values and principles
Students strengthen their belief that Allah has provided guidance for every aspect of life and has established principles which govern Islamic values and etiquettes. They appreciate the importance of the Sunnah in living by these principles, demonstrate a sense of pride in the values Islam teaches and are committed to implementing them in their lives.

• Islamic law and etiquettes
Students consolidate their knowledge of the pillars of Islam and understand how islamic Shariah guides their acts of worship, worldly dealings, morals and ethics. He/She develops a deep understanding of the Qur’an and Sunnah and how Islamic law is derived from these sources.

• Seerah (Life of the Prophet)
Students learn about the stages and events in the life of the Prophet Muhammad (saw) and his companions. They show understanding of the struggles that were experienced during the period in Makkah and Madinah and take lessons and inspiration to further develop their love and appreciation for the Prophet saw.

• Faith and Identity
Students cultivate a sense of pride and loyalty towards their identity and duties as a muslim. They develop appreciation for the gift of Islam, know and understand the tenets of faith and work towards their development while appreciating how it shapes their view of the world.

• Humanity and the universe
Students demonstrate knowledge of the purpose of existence and a sense of appreciation towards the magnificent design and creation of Allah. He/she understands their relationship with Allah and with His creation and how to act responsibly towards humanity and the environment.

The core instructional materials used for Islamic Education (Arabs) are the Ministry of Education Books. The core instructional materials used for Islamic Education (Non Arabs) are the ‘I love Islam’ textbooks prescribed by the Ministry of Education. Other means commonly used in the classrooms are videos, roleplays, discussions, debates, research and activities to make learning meaningful and challenging.

Questioning, critical thinking and reflection are some aspects of Islamic Education classes which help student engage with their learning and to put it into action.
Important events like Hajj, Eid ul Adha, Islamic New Year, Ramadan are commemorated so that the students realise their importance and get the chance to participate in the learning of these. Events like the Islamic quiz, assemblies and talks by guest speakers supplement the curriculum and support learning.

The Al Salam Qu’ran programme for recitation and memorization for all students has been implemented. Extra Qur’an classes are offered to students in the morning on a volunteer basis for those who wish to further improve their memorization.