*** RUSS E-1a Fall term (13722) has been CANCELED. ***
This is a basic course for students with little or no background in Russian. Students receive intensive speaking practice in grammar structures using naturally occurring conversational patterns and regular written exercises for reinforcement. (2 credits)
RUSS E-1b Elementary Russian I
Spring term (23591)
*** RUSS E-1b Spring term (23591) has been CANCELED. ***
This course continues with the essentials of Russian grammar covered in RUSS E-1a Oral practice is emphasized with reinforcement through written exercises. Reading and discussion, including an introduction to poetry by Pushkin and Lermontov, are continued. Prerequisite: RUSS E-1a, or the equivalent. (2 credits)
RUSS E-5 Oral Expression
Fall term (13717)
Patricia R. Chaput, PhD, Professor of the Practice of Slavic Languages, Harvard University.
This course emphasizes building vocabulary and gaining confidence in speaking in a variety of situations. The course uses YouTube videos as a basis, selected for clarity of speech, cultural insights, vocabulary, and storyline. Selections are accompanied by transcripts, vocabulary, exercises for familiarization and practice, and topics to prepare for discussion. Class time is devoted entirely to oral activities, building confidence in habits of everyday conversation: narrating events, expressing opinions, agreeing and disagreeing, speculating about the future. Attention is paid to the rituals and scripts of daily interactions, such as greetings, invitations, and holiday wishes. Additional YouTube music videos are considered for vocabulary expansion and reinforcement. Prerequisites: one year of college Russian, or the equivalent, familiarity with the basics of Russian grammar (declension and conjugation). (4 credits)