Course emphasis is on listening and speaking, with reading and writing as supporting skills. Includes a gradual introduction to the Cyrillic alphabet and basic constructive features of Russian. Language functions developed enable students to recognize and interpret essential messages and respond, at first non-verbally, then in words, phrases, and simple sentences. Students are able to function in the language with learned words and phrases to make acquaintances, express greetings and gratitude, ask and answer limited personal questions, ask permission, and receive directions.
Students develop accuracy by responding initially in words and phrases, then in sentences.
Accuracy emphasizes vocabulary plus pronunciation and spelling, with success measured by communication with a highly sympathetic listener. Students can comprehend or produce texts such as simple notes, conduct a peer interview, and basic phone conversations. Statement on Competencies Stage 1.2-1.3 Reading, Writing, Listening, and Speaking. Novice Mid to Novice High.