What will I learn in Russian Advanced Contemporary Topics?

Classes focus on improving fluency and conversational skills. Students will read authentic media and participate in discussions on topics related to current events and the cultures of Russia.

Please note that the prerequisite for Russian Advanced Contemporary Topics is Russian Intermediate 3 or equivalent proficiency.

Topics may include:

  1. Famous Writers and Literature of Russia 
  2. Education, Youth Outreach, Young Changemakers  
  3. Professions, Labor Force, Labor Unions, Leadership and Teamwork  
  4. Travelling & Tourism, Russian-speaking Countries/Regions, Historical & Cultural Artifacts 
  5. Shopping, Local Business, Markets, Megastores  
  6. Nutrition, Health, Standard of Living and Quality of Life, Preventive Medicine 
  7. Culinary Traditions, Cultural Identity and Taboos 
  8. Social Media, Pop Culture, Popular Media 
  9. Foreign Policy, Foreigners and Local Laws, Freedom of Speech 
  10. Security, Military, Judicial System 
  11. Humanitarian Efforts, Immigration 
  12. Science, Climate Change, Sustainable Development 
  13. International Development, Governmental and Non-Governmental Organizations 

Grammatical topics include:

  • Russian cases and question words for each case 
  • Time expressions 
  • Verbal aspect  
  • Motion verbs (unprefixed/prefixed/transitive) 
  • Imperative forms 
  • Impersonal constructions