Russian Beginner 1 Syllabus

This class is an excellent introduction to the Russian language for absolute beginners. It is an essential starting point for anyone interested in acquiring a basic knowledge of the Russian language and culture.

Each unit of the course consists of several parts explaining vocabulary, phonetics (pronunciation), grammar, and provides examples of simple dialogues in Russian.

Textbook: Sputnik/Introductory Russian Language Course (Part 1) by Julia Rochtchin

The textbook offers many opportunities to practice and improve pronunciation thanks to its over 1,300 high quality audio files, including dialogs, proverbs, phrases, and multiple self-corrected exercises.

Students will learn how to construct simple phrases to meet immediate needs, and use frequent, everyday expressions. 

First Week

What’s your name?

Grammar and phonetics: Introduction to Russian Letters and Sounds. Russian alphabet.

Stress. Vowel reduction. 

Topics and Vocabulary: Greeting and salutation. 

Second Week

How are you?

Grammar and phonetics: Rules of reading. Intonation and statements. Yes/No questions. The verb “to be” in the Present Tense. 

Topics and Vocabulary: Saying goodbye, formal and informal conversations.  

Third Week

Where are you from?

Grammar and phonetics: Personal pronouns. Intonation. Questions with question words. The Rhythm of Russian words. 

Topics and Vocabulary: Classroom. 

Forth Week:

Being polite is important.

Grammar and phonetics: Hard and soft consonants. Vowel reduction. Numerals 1-12.

Topics and Vocabulary: Thank you! You are welcome! Please. Excuse me. Tell me please…

Fifth Week:

Russian Names. Family

Grammar and phonetics: Gender of Nouns and Pronouns. Possessive pronouns.

Topics and Vocabulary: Talking about yourself.

Sixth Week:

Description

Grammar and phonetics: Voiced and voiceless Consonants. Present Tense. Negation. Questions.

Topics and Vocabulary: When? / What? / Where? / At what time?