RUSSIAN (PEARSON)

AS Course Outline

Why study AS Russian?

Studying languages can improve memory and make you a better communicator, and studying the Russian language can inspire students who have an appreciation of the language, literature, film and culture of the Russian-speaking world and want to learn more.

This is an exciting course which will give students an opportunity to develop an advanced knowledge and understanding of the Russian language, the culture of Russia and other Russian-speaking countries, as well as practical and valuable language and transferable study skills.

Who can study AS Russian?

• Students who have already done their Russian GCSE and achieved grade 6 or higher
• Students who can confidently speak and write in Russian and who are interested in developing their language skills further
• Students who can confidently speak and write in Russian and who are interested in learning more about Russian culture

What skills will I develop during this course?

• You will learn how to develop ideas and use language to persuade, analyse and give critical responses in your essays and discussions
• You will learn how to write essays on literary texts and films and how to critically evaluate them
• You will learn and apply important transferable skills such as critical thinking and communication
• You will learn how to develop your research skills
• You will learn how to translate texts from Russian to English and from English to Russian
• You will build your confidence and your cultural knowledge

How is the course structured?

• Students have weekly lessons on various themes and works of literature
• Homework is given every week to practice different skills such as grammar, essay writing, translation, research and presentation
• Mock exams take place once a month

Russian Language (PEARSON) Summary of Content at AS

You will study engaging topics you might already be familiar with, as well as new content related to some of the most interesting aspects of the culture of Russia and Russian-speaking communities.

At this level you will be engaging with two themes: Theme 1: Changes in Russian Society Theme 1 is set in the context of Russia only. Life of Russian youth (Health; relaxation; new technologies). Education (Education system; life of Russian schoolchildren). World of work (Attitude towards work; opportunities for young Russians; equality). Theme 2: Political and artistic culture in the Russian-speaking world Theme 2 is set in the context of the Russian-speaking world. Mass media (Freedom of expression; print and online press; impact on society and politics). Popular culture (Music, circus and dance). Holidays, festivals and traditions (Festivals; holidays; customs; traditions)

The two themes are studied alongside either one literary text or one film.
At this stage a rich choice of literary texts and films includes contemporary and more classical titles:

“The Queen of Spades” by A.S.Pushkin (novel)
“A week like any other” by N. Baranskaya (novel)
“The Cherry Orchard (Vishneviy Sad)” by Anton Chekhov (play)
“Wings (Krylia)” by Larissa Shepitko (film)
“Burnt by the Sun” by Nikita Mikhalkov (film)