RUSSIAN
Introduction to Russian Language Course
The Russian Language Course at KIFLAPS is designed to provide students with a comprehensive and structured learning experience, aligned with the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFRL). This course aims to develop proficiency in Russian from beginner to advanced levels, focusing on practical communication skills, cultural understanding, and linguistic competence. The course is divided into six levels, each tailored to gradually build the learner’s capabilities in listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
RUSSIAN A1
RUSSIAN A2
RUSSIAN B1
RUSSIAN B2
RUSSIAN C1
RUSSIAN C2
RUSSIAN A1
Course Objectives:
- Understand and use familiar everyday expressions and very basic phrases aimed at the satisfaction of needs of a concrete type.
- Introduce oneself and others and can ask and answer questions about personal details.
- Interact in a simple way provided the other person talks slowly and clearly.
Topics Covered:
Introduction to Russian Alphabet and Pronunciation
- Cyrillic alphabet
- Basic phonetics and pronunciation rules
Basic Grammar and Vocabulary
- Personal pronouns
- Common verbs (to be, to have, etc.)
- Basic nouns and adjectives
- Simple sentence structure (Subject-Verb-Object)
Daily Life and Common Phrases
- Greetings and introductions
- Numbers, dates, and time
- Family and friends
- Shopping and food
- Directions and transportation
Simple Dialogues and Conversations
- Asking and answering simple questions
- Expressing likes and dislikes
- Making polite requests and offers
Listening and Comprehension
- Understanding basic spoken phrases and instructions
- Listening to simple conversations and dialogues
Reading and Writing
- Reading short, simple texts (e.g., signs, notices, advertisements)
- Writing short, simple sentences and phrases (e.g., postcards, notes)
Skills Developed:
- Listening: Understand basic phrases and instructions related to personal and everyday contexts.
- Speaking: Participate in simple conversations, introduce oneself, and respond to basic questions.
- Reading: Recognize familiar words, basic phrases, and simple texts.
- Writing: Write short, simple notes and messages, complete forms with personal details.
Learning Activities:
- Interactive Exercises: Engage in interactive language exercises to practice pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammar.
- Role-Playing: Participate in role-playing activities to simulate real-life situations and enhance speaking skills.
- Listening Comprehension: Listen to audio recordings of native speakers and practice understanding basic spoken Russian.
- Reading Practice: Read simple texts and complete comprehension exercises to reinforce vocabulary and grammar.
- Writing Assignments: Write short paragraphs, sentences, and complete basic writing tasks to develop writing skills.
Assessment:
- Quizzes and Tests: Regular quizzes and tests to assess understanding and retention of vocabulary, grammar, and basic phrases.
- Oral Exams: Oral exams to evaluate speaking and listening skills through simple conversations and dialogues.
- Writing Exercises: Written assignments to assess the ability to write short, simple texts and complete forms.
By the end of the A1 Beginner level, students will have a solid foundation in the Russian language, enabling them to handle basic communication needs and prepare for more advanced levels of study.
RUSSIAN A2
Course Objectives:
- Understand sentences and frequently used expressions related to areas of most immediate relevance.
- Communicate in simple and routine tasks requiring a simple and direct exchange of information on familiar topics and activities.
- Describe in simple terms aspects of their background, immediate environment, and matters in areas of immediate need.
Topics Covered:
Expanding Vocabulary and Grammar
- Common verbs and tenses (present, past, future)
- Nouns and adjective agreements
- Use of prepositions and conjunctions
- Comparatives and superlatives
Everyday Situations and Social Interactions
- Making and responding to invitations
- Arranging meetings and appointments
- Discussing hobbies and interests
- Talking about daily routines and schedules
Travel and Transportation
- Asking for and giving directions
- Describing travel plans and itineraries
- Using public transportation
- Booking accommodations and tickets
Health and Well-being
- Visiting the doctor and describing symptoms
- Understanding basic medical advice
- Discussing diet and lifestyle
Shopping and Services
- Describing products and services
- Asking about prices and making purchases
- Ordering food and drinks in a restaurant
- Talking about preferences and experiences
Listening and Comprehension
- Understanding simple spoken information and announcements
- Listening to short conversations and dialogues
Reading and Writing
- Reading simple texts, such as emails, letters, and short articles
- Writing simple paragraphs, notes, and messages
Skills Developed:
- Listening: Understand phrases and expressions related to personal and everyday contexts.
- Speaking: Participate in simple and routine conversations, express opinions, and describe experiences.
- Reading: Read and understand simple texts, instructions, and short articles.
- Writing: Write short, coherent paragraphs, simple letters, and messages.
Learning Activities:
- Interactive Exercises: Engage in language exercises to practice expanded vocabulary, grammar, and sentence structures.
- Role-Playing: Participate in role-playing activities to simulate real-life scenarios and enhance conversational skills.
- Listening Comprehension: Listen to audio recordings of native speakers and practice understanding more complex spoken Russian.
- Reading Practice: Read and analyze simple texts, complete comprehension exercises, and expand vocabulary.
- Writing Assignments: Write short essays, letters, and notes to develop writing skills and practice sentence structure.
Assessment:
- Quizzes and Tests: Regular quizzes and tests to assess understanding and retention of vocabulary, grammar, and phrases.
- Oral Exams: Oral exams to evaluate speaking and listening skills through conversations and role-plays.
- Writing Exercises: Written assignments to assess the ability to write coherent paragraphs, letters, and messages.
By the end of the A2 Elementary level, students will have a deeper understanding of the Russian language, enabling them to handle everyday communication more effectively and prepare for more advanced levels of study.
RUSSIAN B1
Course Overview: The B1 Intermediate level is designed to bridge the gap between elementary and advanced Russian language skills. This course focuses on improving students’ ability to communicate effectively in a variety of contexts, understand more complex texts, and engage in conversations on familiar topics. Emphasis is placed on developing a deeper understanding of Russian grammar, expanding vocabulary, and enhancing reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills.
Course Objectives:
- Understand the main points of clear standard input on familiar matters regularly encountered in work, school, leisure, etc.
- Deal with most situations likely to arise whilst traveling in an area where the language is spoken.
- Produce simple connected text on topics that are familiar or of personal interest.
- Describe experiences, events, dreams, hopes, and ambitions and briefly give reasons and explanations for opinions and plans.
Topics Covered:
Advanced Vocabulary and Grammar
- Complex sentence structures
- Use of various tenses and aspects (perfective vs. imperfective)
- Reflexive verbs
- Conditional and subjunctive moods
Daily Life and Personal Experiences
- Describing daily routines and personal experiences in detail
- Discussing past events and future plans
- Expressing preferences, opinions, and feelings
Travel and Leisure
- Planning and describing trips and holidays
- Discussing hobbies, interests, and leisure activities
- Talking about cultural events and traditions
Health and Wellness
- Discussing health issues and medical treatments
- Understanding and giving advice on healthy living
- Talking about physical and mental well-being
Work and Education
- Describing job roles and responsibilities
- Discussing educational backgrounds and plans
- Talking about workplace scenarios and solving problems
Social Issues and Current Events
- Discussing news, social issues, and current events
- Expressing opinions and engaging in debates
- Understanding and discussing cultural differences
Listening and Comprehension
- Understanding longer spoken texts and dialogues
- Listening to and understanding radio programs, podcasts, and news
Reading and Writing
- Reading and understanding a variety of texts, including articles, short stories, and reports
- Writing detailed paragraphs, essays, letters, and reports
Skills Developed:
- Listening: Understand the main points of spoken Russian in standard dialect, including radio and television programs.
- Speaking: Engage in conversations on familiar topics, express ideas clearly, and interact with native speakers.
- Reading: Read and comprehend texts on various topics, including factual information and narratives.
- Writing: Write detailed, coherent texts on a range of subjects, expressing opinions and arguments effectively.
Learning Activities:
- Interactive Exercises: Practice advanced grammar and vocabulary through interactive exercises and drills.
- Role-Playing and Simulations: Engage in role-playing activities to practice real-life scenarios and enhance conversational skills.
- Listening Comprehension: Listen to longer, more complex audio recordings and practice understanding nuanced information.
- Reading Practice: Read and analyze a variety of texts, complete comprehension exercises, and expand vocabulary.
- Writing Assignments: Write essays, reports, and letters to develop writing skills and practice complex sentence structures.
Assessment:
- Quizzes and Tests: Regular quizzes and tests to assess understanding and retention of advanced vocabulary, grammar, and phrases.
- Oral Exams: Oral exams to evaluate speaking and listening skills through conversations and role-plays.
- Writing Exercises: Written assignments to assess the ability to write detailed and coherent texts on various topics.
By the end of the B1 Intermediate level, students will have the skills to communicate more confidently and effectively in Russian, handle a wider range of situations, and express themselves clearly and coherently. They will be prepared to progress to more advanced levels of language study.
RUSSIAN B2
Course Objectives:
- Understand the main ideas of complex text on both concrete and abstract topics, including technical discussions in their field of specialization.
- Interact with a degree of fluency and spontaneity that makes regular interaction with native speakers quite possible without strain for either party.
- Produce clear, detailed text on a wide range of subjects and explain a viewpoint on a topical issue, giving the advantages and disadvantages of various options.
Topics Covered:
Advanced Grammar and Vocabulary
- Advanced sentence structures and syntax
- Use of idiomatic expressions and phrasal verbs
- Mastery of advanced verb tenses and moods
- Nuances of aspect (perfective and imperfective verbs)
Complex Conversations and Discussions
- Engaging in in-depth discussions on various topics
- Expressing and defending opinions
- Understanding and using nuanced language
Cultural and Social Issues
- Discussing cultural traditions and social issues in Russian-speaking countries
- Exploring literature, films, and media in Russian
- Understanding and discussing current events and their impact
Professional and Academic Language
- Writing and understanding formal letters, reports, and essays
- Participating in professional and academic discussions
- Developing specialized vocabulary related to students’ fields of interest
Advanced Listening and Comprehension
- Understanding extended speech and lectures
- Following complex arguments and detailed explanations
- Listening to and understanding news broadcasts, podcasts, and documentaries
Reading and Writing
- Reading and analyzing complex texts, including literature, articles, and essays
- Writing detailed, well-structured essays, reports, and reviews
- Summarizing and paraphrasing complex information
Fluency and Pronunciation
- Improving pronunciation and intonation
- Enhancing fluency and coherence in speaking
- Practicing spontaneous and natural conversations
Problem-Solving and Critical Thinking
- Engaging in problem-solving activities and discussions
- Developing critical thinking skills through debates and discussions
- Analyzing and synthesizing information from various sources
Skills Developed:
- Listening: Understand extended speech, lectures, and news broadcasts; follow complex arguments and discussions.
- Speaking: Participate in conversations on a wide range of topics with fluency and spontaneity; express ideas clearly and effectively.
- Reading: Read and comprehend complex texts, including literary works and technical articles; analyze and interpret information.
- Writing: Write clear, detailed texts on various subjects, including essays, reports, and reviews; express and support viewpoints.
Learning Activities:
- Interactive Exercises: Practice advanced grammar and vocabulary through interactive exercises and drills.
- Debates and Discussions: Engage in debates and discussions on various topics to enhance speaking and critical thinking skills.
- Listening Comprehension: Listen to advanced audio recordings and practice understanding detailed and nuanced information.
- Reading Practice: Read and analyze complex texts, complete comprehension exercises, and expand advanced vocabulary.
- Writing Assignments: Write detailed essays, reports, and reviews to develop writing skills and practice advanced sentence structures.
Assessment:
- Quizzes and Tests: Regular quizzes and tests to assess understanding and retention of advanced grammar and vocabulary.
- Oral Exams: Oral exams to evaluate speaking and listening skills through conversations and presentations.
- Writing Exercises: Written assignments to assess the ability to write detailed and coherent texts on various topics.
By the end of the B2 Upper Intermediate level, students will have the skills to communicate confidently and effectively in Russian, handle complex situations, and express themselves clearly and accurately. They will be prepared to engage in professional and academic discussions and to progress to more advanced levels of language study.
RUSSIAN C1
Course Objectives:
- Understand a wide range of demanding, longer texts, and recognize implicit meaning.
- Express ideas fluently and spontaneously without much obvious searching for expressions.
- Use language flexibly and effectively for social, academic, and professional purposes.
- Produce clear, well-structured, detailed texts on complex subjects, showing controlled use of organizational patterns, connectors, and cohesive devices.
Topics Covered:
Advanced Grammar and Syntax
- Mastery of advanced grammatical structures and usage
- Complex sentence formations and subordinate clauses
- Advanced use of aspects and moods in verbs
- Refinement of stylistic and rhetorical devices
Sophisticated Vocabulary and Idioms
- Expanding vocabulary to include rare and specialized terms
- Mastering idiomatic expressions and colloquialisms
- Understanding and using nuanced language for precise expression
In-depth Conversations and Debates
- Engaging in high-level discussions on abstract, complex, and controversial topics
- Presenting and defending detailed arguments and viewpoints
- Understanding and responding to nuanced and subtle cues in conversation
Cultural and Literary Analysis
- Analyzing and discussing Russian literature, film, and art
- Exploring historical and contemporary cultural issues in Russian-speaking countries
- Understanding cultural references and their implications
Professional and Academic Communication
- Writing and presenting research papers, professional reports, and essays
- Participating in and leading professional meetings and discussions
- Developing specialized vocabulary and jargon for academic and professional contexts
Advanced Listening and Comprehension
- Understanding extended speech, including lectures and presentations
- Following complex arguments and detailed explanations in various contexts
- Listening to and interpreting news broadcasts, podcasts, and academic lectures
Reading and Writing Mastery
- Reading and critically analyzing sophisticated texts, including literary works and academic articles
- Writing structured, detailed, and coherent texts, including essays, reports, and reviews
- Summarizing and synthesizing complex information from multiple sources
Pronunciation and Fluency Enhancement
- Perfecting pronunciation, stress, and intonation
- Achieving fluency and spontaneity in speaking
- Engaging in spontaneous and natural conversations with native speakers
Skills Developed:
- Listening: Understand complex spoken language, including specialized and technical content; follow extended discussions and lectures.
- Speaking: Speak fluently and spontaneously on a wide range of topics; present complex ideas and arguments clearly and persuasively.
- Reading: Read and interpret sophisticated texts, including literature, academic papers, and technical documents; analyze and evaluate information.
- Writing: Write clear, well-structured, and detailed texts on complex subjects; use advanced grammar and vocabulary accurately.
Learning Activities:
- Advanced Interactive Exercises: Practice advanced grammar and vocabulary through challenging exercises and drills.
- Debates and Discussions: Participate in high-level debates and discussions to enhance speaking and critical thinking skills.
- Listening Comprehension: Listen to advanced audio recordings and practice understanding detailed and nuanced information.
- Reading Practice: Read and analyze sophisticated texts, complete comprehension exercises, and expand advanced vocabulary.
- Writing Assignments: Write detailed essays, reports, and reviews to develop writing skills and practice advanced sentence structures.
Assessment:
- Quizzes and Tests: Regular quizzes and tests to assess understanding and retention of advanced grammar and vocabulary.
- Oral Exams: Oral exams to evaluate speaking and listening skills through complex conversations and presentations.
- Writing Exercises: Written assignments to assess the ability to write detailed and coherent texts on various topics.
Course Objectives:
- Understand virtually everything heard or read with ease.
- Summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation.
- Express oneself spontaneously, very fluently, and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.
Topics Covered:
Advanced and Nuanced Grammar
- Mastery of all grammatical structures, including the most complex ones
- Nuanced use of aspects, moods, and tenses
- Advanced sentence formations and stylistic variations
Extensive and Specialized Vocabulary
- Expanding vocabulary to include highly specialized and rare terms
- Mastering sophisticated idiomatic expressions and phrases
- Using nuanced language for precise and subtle expression
Sophisticated Conversations and Debates
- Engaging in high-level discussions on abstract, intricate, and controversial topics
- Presenting and defending detailed, nuanced arguments and viewpoints
- Understanding and responding to subtle cues and implied meanings
Cultural and Literary Mastery
- Analyzing and discussing advanced Russian literature, film, and art
- Exploring deep cultural issues and their historical contexts in Russian-speaking countries
- Understanding and interpreting cultural references and their nuances
Professional and Academic Excellence
- Writing and presenting sophisticated research papers, professional reports, and essays
- Leading and participating in advanced professional and academic discussions
- Developing specialized vocabulary and jargon for high-level professional contexts
Comprehensive Listening and Comprehension
- Understanding extended speech, including highly specialized content
- Following complex arguments and detailed explanations in various contexts
- Listening to and interpreting advanced news broadcasts, podcasts, and academic lectures
Reading and Writing Mastery
- Reading and critically analyzing complex texts, including literature, academic papers, and technical documents
- Writing highly structured, detailed, and coherent texts, including essays, reports, and reviews
- Summarizing and synthesizing complex information from multiple sources
Pronunciation and Fluency Perfection
- Perfecting pronunciation, stress, and intonation to near-native level
- Achieving effortless fluency and spontaneity in speaking
- Engaging in spontaneous and natural conversations with native speakers
Skills Developed:
- Listening: Understand virtually any spoken language, including idiomatic and colloquial expressions; follow extended, complex discussions and lectures.
- Speaking: Speak fluently, spontaneously, and precisely on a wide range of topics; present complex ideas and arguments clearly and persuasively.
- Reading: Read and interpret complex texts, including literature, academic papers, and technical documents; analyze and evaluate detailed information.
- Writing: Write clear, well-structured, and highly detailed texts on complex subjects; use advanced grammar and vocabulary accurately.
Learning Activities:
- Advanced Interactive Exercises: Practice advanced grammar and vocabulary through challenging exercises and drills.
- Debates and Discussions: Participate in high-level debates and discussions to enhance speaking and critical thinking skills.
- Listening Comprehension: Listen to advanced audio recordings and practice understanding detailed and nuanced information.
- Reading Practice: Read and analyze complex texts, complete comprehension exercises, and expand advanced vocabulary.
- Writing Assignments: Write detailed essays, reports, and reviews to develop writing skills and practice advanced sentence structures.
Assessment:
- Quizzes and Tests: Regular quizzes and tests to assess understanding and retention of advanced grammar and vocabulary.
- Oral Exams: Oral exams to evaluate speaking and listening skills through complex conversations and presentations.
- Writing Exercises: Written assignments to assess the ability to write detailed and coherent texts on various topics.
By the end of the C2 Proficiency level, students will have achieved complete fluency and mastery of the Russian language. They will be able to communicate with native-like proficiency, handle any linguistic situation with ease, and express themselves clearly and accurately in all contexts, both personal and professional. They will be fully prepared to engage in high-level professional and academic endeavors in Russian-speaking environments.
RUSSIAN C2
Course Objectives:
- Understand virtually everything heard or read with ease.
- Summarize information from different spoken and written sources, reconstructing arguments and accounts in a coherent presentation.
- Express oneself spontaneously, very fluently, and precisely, differentiating finer shades of meaning even in more complex situations.
Topics Covered:
-
Advanced and Nuanced Grammar
- Mastery of all grammatical structures, including the most complex ones
- Nuanced use of aspects, moods, and tenses
- Advanced sentence formations and stylistic variations
-
Extensive and Specialized Vocabulary
- Expanding vocabulary to include highly specialized and rare terms
- Mastering sophisticated idiomatic expressions and phrases
- Using nuanced language for precise and subtle expression
-
Sophisticated Conversations and Debates
- Engaging in high-level discussions on abstract, intricate, and controversial topics
- Presenting and defending detailed, nuanced arguments and viewpoints
- Understanding and responding to subtle cues and implied meanings
-
Cultural and Literary Mastery
- Analyzing and discussing advanced Russian literature, film, and art
- Exploring deep cultural issues and their historical contexts in Russian-speaking countries
- Understanding and interpreting cultural references and their nuances
-
Professional and Academic Excellence
- Writing and presenting sophisticated research papers, professional reports, and essays
- Leading and participating in advanced professional and academic discussions
- Developing specialized vocabulary and jargon for high-level professional contexts
-
Comprehensive Listening and Comprehension
- Understanding extended speech, including highly specialized content
- Following complex arguments and detailed explanations in various contexts
- Listening to and interpreting advanced news broadcasts, podcasts, and academic lectures
-
Reading and Writing Mastery
- Reading and critically analyzing complex texts, including literature, academic papers, and technical documents
- Writing highly structured, detailed, and coherent texts, including essays, reports, and reviews
- Summarizing and synthesizing complex information from multiple sources
-
Pronunciation and Fluency Perfection
- Perfecting pronunciation, stress, and intonation to near-native level
- Achieving effortless fluency and spontaneity in speaking
- Engaging in spontaneous and natural conversations with native speakers
Skills Developed:
- Listening: Understand virtually any spoken language, including idiomatic and colloquial expressions; follow extended, complex discussions and lectures.
- Speaking: Speak fluently, spontaneously, and precisely on a wide range of topics; present complex ideas and arguments clearly and persuasively.
- Reading: Read and interpret complex texts, including literature, academic papers, and technical documents; analyze and evaluate detailed information.
- Writing: Write clear, well-structured, and highly detailed texts on complex subjects; use advanced grammar and vocabulary accurately.
Learning Activities:
- Advanced Interactive Exercises: Practice advanced grammar and vocabulary through challenging exercises and drills.
- Debates and Discussions: Participate in high-level debates and discussions to enhance speaking and critical thinking skills.
- Listening Comprehension: Listen to advanced audio recordings and practice understanding detailed and nuanced information.
- Reading Practice: Read and analyze complex texts, complete comprehension exercises, and expand advanced vocabulary.
- Writing Assignments: Write detailed essays, reports, and reviews to develop writing skills and practice advanced sentence structures.
Assessment:
- Quizzes and Tests: Regular quizzes and tests to assess understanding and retention of advanced grammar and vocabulary.
- Oral Exams: Oral exams to evaluate speaking and listening skills through complex conversations and presentations.
- Writing Exercises: Written assignments to assess the ability to write detailed and coherent texts on various topics.
By the end of the C2 Proficiency level, students will have achieved complete fluency and mastery of the Russian language. They will be able to communicate with native-like proficiency, handle any linguistic situation with ease, and express themselves clearly and accurately in all contexts, both personal and professional. They will be fully prepared to engage in high-level professional and academic endeavors in Russian-speaking environments.