Beginning Russian I introduces the Russian Language and builds foundational skills in speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Grammar is introduced within conversational topics. The course is very interactive and students learn how to communicate on selected topics, creating dialogues and acting out real world situations. Students who have prior knowledge in Russian should take placement test before enrolling into the class.

Beginning Russian II works on further development of communicative skills within conversational topics. Students learn more vocabulary and grammar and writing given topics are able to have conversations, read, and write in the target language. Students must take the placement exam and consult their program coordinator if this is their first RIT Russian class, and they have some prior study of Russian.

This course develops students’ skills in conversation at the intermediate level. Students will review grammar and vocabulary from the beginning level and continue to build on grammar, vocabulary, phrases, and other expressive skills. Students apply them in a variety of task/goal-oriented conversations to gain accuracy and more fluency. In doing so, students reflect upon the norms and communication strategies in the US or their own culture, and compare them with those in Russian society.

Advanced Russian I, the first in the advanced (third year) sequence of Russian language courses, provides students with training in advanced-intermediate to advanced level work in all skills (speaking, listening, reading, writing), including conversation, with increased work in reading and writing. In addition students learn about Russian culture and history through articles that they read in the target language. See Coordinator of the World languages program if this is your first RIT Russian class. Students must take the placement exam if this is their first RIT Russian class, and they have some prior study of Russian or are heritage learners who need to improve their reading and writing skills.

This course trains students in both learning about and learning through Russian language and culture using media. Students engage in learning about Russian cultural traditions, television, cinematography and art through watching movies and videos, exploring websites in the target language, reading, and holding discussions about, digital and written media. Students will broaden their vocabulary base and use them in discussions, conversations, and writing on the advanced level. They will also improve their listening by learning directly from authentic media materials. Students also expand their understanding of certain traditions and gain knowledge about Russian heritage such as cinematography and art.