First-Year Russian III

Undergraduate / Graduate

This is a first-year Russian course, introducing students to spoken and written modern Russian. This course emphasizes communicative practices in authentic cultural contexts, for those who would like to speak Russian or use the language for reading and research. Cultural audio-visual materials and use of Russian websites help to reinforce the link between language and culture. It also includes review and amplification of grammar, practice in reading, elementary composition, and speaking and comprehension. Systematic study of word formation and other strategies are taught to help free students from excessive dependence on the dictionary and develop confidence in reading rather than translating. Readings are selected to help provide historical and cultural background. Mandatory conversation sessions are held twice a week. Students completing this sequence will be prepared to take the College Language Competency Exam, 2nd Year Russian (RUSS 20103) at the University of Chicago in the following fall quarter, or a 2nd Year Russian course over the summer at another institution, and/or to participate in a study abroad program where Russian is spoken.