PERSN 1320

Elementary Persian-Farsi I

Course Description

Course information provided by the 2026-2027 Catalog.

Elementary Persian I (the Alphabet & Discussion) requires no prior knowledge of Persian (Farsi) and enables students to acquire foundation in all five skills -listening, speaking, reading, writing, and cultural competence. Particular focus of this course is on the alphabet (Alefba) and basics of reading and writing. For heritage speakers proficient in spoken Persian, this course is a fast and efficient path to literacy in modern Persian, enabling them to read and write like educated native speakers. Instruction begins with the alphabet and number system and expands to include basic and functional topics of everyday use such as speaking about oneself, family and social life, study and work, daily activities, time and routine, likes and dislikes. Functional speaking proficiency in everyday colloquial Persian is integral to all our courses. Expect speaking activities in class on daily basis. The course guides the students towards Novice Low to Novice Mid proficiency levels, based on the ACTFL proficiency scale, depending on individual progress and skill development.

Distribution Requirements (FL-AG), (OCL-IL)

Exploratory Studies (EULANG, SALANG), (CU-ITL)

Last 4 Terms Offered 2025FA, 2024FA, 2023FA, 2022FA

Learning Outcomes

• Learn about 400 high-frequency, practical vocabulary units and everyday Persian phraseology.
• Understand and actively participate in conversations on basic topics listed above.
• Read and comprehend basic texts written in Persian script.
• Write brief paragraphs in proper written Persian on the familiar topics covered in class.

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