Readings in the Contemporary Russian Press

This course will focus on the development of vocabulary related to Russian media, and of reading, listening, speaking, and writing skills through reading, viewing, and discussion of various materials in the journalistic and popular press. We will discuss the political, economic, social, and cultural life of Russia as represented in the media. At home students will read assigned press materials and do grammatical and lexical exercises to develop vocabulary. In class we will watch television programs thematically linked with the assigned readings. Students will be required to convey the author’s opinion and their own, to participate in debates, and to give and respond to oral reports. Grades will be assessed according to class participation, homework, an oral report, weekly compositions, and a final examination.