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LEVEL A1 - ABSOLUTE BEGINNER

Swahili 101: Foundation Course

Course Code: SWA-101-A1

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Tuition

  • Members: $495
  • Non-Members: $595

Next Start Dates

  • Spring 2026: January 18, 2026
  • Summer 2026: May 16, 2026
  • Fall 2026: September 12, 2026

Program Overview

Course Description Your introduction to the Swahili language and East African culture. This foundational course focuses on basic communication skills, essential vocabulary, and cultural awareness. Perfect for complete beginners with no prior knowledge of Swahili.

Course Objectives

  • Greet people and introduce yourself in culturally appropriate ways
  • Use numbers, tell time, and discuss dates
  • Describe yourself, family, and daily routines
  • Navigate basic situations: shopping, ordering food, asking directions
  • Read and write simple sentences
  • Understand basic Swahili pronunciation and sound system
  • Recognize cultural customs and social etiquette

Topics Covered

  • Week 1-2: Greetings, introductions, alphabet & pronunciation
  • Week 3-4: Numbers, time, days, months, seasons
  • Week 5-6: Family, describing people, possessives
  • Week 7-8: Daily routines, common verbs, present tense
  • Week 9-10: Food, restaurants, shopping vocabulary
  • Week 11-12: Transportation, directions, locations
  • Week 13-14: Hobbies, likes/dislikes, free time
  • Week 15-16: Review, cultural project, final assessment

Course Details

    • Duration: 16 weeks (64 contact hours)
    • Schedule: Saturdays, 10:00 AM – 12:00 PM EST
    • Format: Live online (Zoom)
    • Class Size: Maximum 12 students
    • Homework: 2-3 hours weekly
    • Prerequisites: None

Materials Included

    • Digital textbook: “Swahili Foundations”
    • Audio pronunciation guide (200+ phrases)
    • Interactive online workbook
    • Cultural video series
    • Flashcard deck (500 essential words)
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