Basic Urdu is a theme-based, interactive open-source online textbook for the true novice learners of the Urdu language. The book uses mixed pedagogical approaches to language teaching to match diverse teaching and learning styles. It aims to help learners achieve intermediate low to mid-proficiency levels set by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL).

Let’s Chat! Arabic features a collection of over 28 interpersonal speaking activities for novice and intermediate learners. Touching on a range of thematic topics such as greetings, daily routines, health, eating out, holidays and so much more, Arabic teachers are sure to find an activity to use in their courses. These activities may be used as is or can easily be revised and remixed to fit the unique needs of individual classrooms.

This activity is revised for a face-to-face K-12 classroom, although it is most appropriate for secondary (middle school and high school) levels. I added layers to the warm-up and cool-down and the entirety of the activity could easily last one full (50 minute) class period or be divided into two classes. The entire activity is contextualized as an authentic performance task where prospective students go on a virtual “university campus tour”. 

In this activity, students are going to practice asking for the cost of something and practice purchasing items. Students are also going to be exposed to the concept of bartering and how to do it with a vendor.