Russian Beginner 1 (LAS1104)

Assuming no prior knowledge of the language, this unit aims to provide a general foundation in the language and culture in order to cope with a range of predictable, everyday communicative situations encountered when interacting at a basic level, orally and in writing, with sympathetic native speakers during, for instance, a brief visit abroad. 

Upon successful completion of the course, students should be able to:

• perform at Level A1- of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR)
• recognise familiar words and very basic descriptions concerning themselves, their family and immediate concrete surroundings when people speak slowly and clearly
• read and extract key information from short, very simple texts and written documents (messages, notices, instructions, brochures, etc.)
• interact in a basic way with a sympathetic native speaker in simple, routine, predictable situations, requesting or providing factual information, and coping with unfamiliar language or unexpected responses by asking for repetition or clarification
• write very simple notes, messages and short personal letters or emails providing essential information about themselves
• demonstrate an initial insight into very basic aspects of the culture and everyday life in areas where the language is spoken so as to respond appropriately when interacting with native speakers in elementary situations
• demonstrate a practical understanding of essential grammar terminology and a basic ability to study the language by themselves, using essential tools such as the World Wide Web or a dictionary and developing techniques for the acquisition and retention of new language
• demonstrate awareness in a number of transferable skills such as IT skills, presenting information, handling unexpected communicative situations, taking intercultural differences and language barriers into account, learning independently, etc.