IZDIHAR
Vol. 8 No. 3 (2025): Izdihar : Journal of Arabic Language Teaching, Linguistics, and Literature

Identity, Religious Affiliation, and Politeness in an Introductory Arabic Language Textbook

Fatima El Zahraa (UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Indonesia)
Heba Tawfiqe Abu Eyadah (Islamic University of Minnesota, United States)
Mukhshon Nawawi (UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Indonesia)
Iman Matin (UIN Syarif Hidayatullah Jakarta, Indonesia)
Haniah (UIN Alauddin Makassar, Indonesia)
Laily Maziyah (Universitas Negeri Malang, Indonesia)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Dec 2025

Abstract

This study critically examined how an introductory Arabic language textbook for non-native learners represented linguistic variation, including Modern Standard Arabic, regional dialects, and cultural practices. Using qualitative content analysis within a critical discourse framework, the study analyzed Alif Baa (print and digital editions), covering ten instructional units, bilingual glossaries, and 28 video materials featuring fuṣḥā, Egyptian, Levantine, and mixed Arabic varieties. An evaluative checklist was employed to examine representations of non-standard Arabic, politeness strategies, social identities, intercultural communication, Islamic identity, learners’ linguistic ecology, pedagogy, and accessibility. The findings revealed that while the textbook promoted sociolinguistic awareness through selective inclusion of dialectal diversity, it simultaneously privileged dominant norms and limited sociopragmatic complexity. In conclusion, the study argues that Arabic language textbooks should move beyond tokenistic diversity by incorporating critical sociopragmatic explanations, non-native speaker models, and inclusive design principles to support equitable and critically informed language learning

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Journal Info

Abbrev

izdihar

Publisher

Subject

Education Languange, Linguistic, Communication & Media

Description

IZDIHAR journal is a scientific research journal of Arabic teaching, linguistics, and literature. It is open for anyone who desires to develop knowledge based on qualified research in any field. Submitted papers are evaluated by anonymous referees by double-blind peer review for contribution, ...