This curriculum is built on functional-notional principles and is built around topics that are both meaningful and relevant to everyday life in Russia. These topics will be explored through the use of situations and activities that simulate real life. Grammar points will be consistently introduced and practiced as they relate to these situations and activities, on a “just-in-time basis.” Similarly, vocabulary items will be introduced in a realistic and authentic topical context, and students will be given the opportunity to personalize newly introduced items for better retention. The overall methodological approach of the course will be task and content based. As language and culture are inseparable, the latter will be an integral part of every instructional hour.

Homework will be assigned after every class and will be largely based on the material introduced and practiced in class.

Tests will be given at the Professor’s discretion. The students will be evaluated based on their ability to render the meaning and express their thoughts correctly. The students will have to make a final oral presentation and write a paper in Russian on a topic negotiated with the Professor. One Friday a month the students will be involved in a group project.