(PHOENIX, Ariz., July 26, 2005) - After a resurgence of interest, the Phoenix College Foreign Language Department will offer Hebrew 101 this Fall. Beginning Aug. 22, the introductory Hebrew course is scheduled for Monday and Wednesday evenings from 5:15 p.m. - 6:55 p.m.

Students can anticipate learning basic grammar, pronunciation and vocabulary. Additionally, the class will concentrate on language skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing.

According to the instructor, Ada Jacobowitz, students tend to learn how speak, read and write Hebrew fairly quickly.

"Hebrew reading is easier to learn than English," she said. "The sounds of the consonants are constant. My previous classes have been reading Hebrew by the end of the second week."

Jacobowitz, who incorporates songs and proverbs into lessons, is no stranger to the language or culture. She first taught Hebrew in Israel to women who had immigrated to Israel from North Africa. Additionally, she began her teaching career at Phoenix College in the 1970s.

Whether students enroll for the cultural experience or to learn a new language, the instructor's unique teaching style allows students to learn the Jewish culture as they learn the language.

"Some people who enroll are interested in Biblical Studies, others in a language with a literature over 3,500 years old yet used today by children as well as by the intellectually sophisticated," added Jacobowitz. "Hebrew is both a key to the ancient past and to a vital and vibrant contemporary culture which has produced several Nobel Prize winners in the sciences and literature."

The four-credit course will begin August 22; however, class registration is currently underway.

For more information, please call the Phoenix College Foreign Language Department at (602) 285-7170.

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