LA1PR3-IWLP Russian 3

Module Provider: Languages and Cultures
Number of credits: 20 [10 ECTS credits]
Level:4
Terms in which taught: Autumn / Spring / Summer module
Pre-requisites: LA1PR2 IWLP Russian 2
Non-modular pre-requisites:
Co-requisites:
Modules excluded: LA1PR1 IWLP Russian 1 LA1PR2 IWLP Russian 2
Current from: 2022/3

Module Convenor: Dr Nigora Nasirova
Email: n.nasirova@reading.ac.uk

Type of module:

Summary module description:

The module is intended for students with an entry level of CEFR (Common European Framework of Reference for Languages) A2. On successful completion of the module students will have achieved CEFR B1. 

This module aims to provide students with the opportunity to gain confidence in the four language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing, in order to develop their ability to interact with native speakers of Russian. They will gain precision and accuracy in expressing themselves in and understanding oral and written Russian, concentrating on its communicative use in a variety of situations. 

This module is taught at level 4 of the Framework for Higher Education Qualifications. Reading University allows students from any year to take this module. Students will identify and use relevant understanding, methods and skills to address problems that are well defined but complex and non-routine. In language learning this means acquiring knowledge of grammar and vocabulary, developing strategies for learning and practising the language in the four skills of reading, writing, listening and speaking, in order to communicate within defined situations while developing tools to enable students to respond to unexpected events. Students will exercise autonomy and judgement by developing independent learning skills. They will gain understanding of different perspectives and cultural differences in approaching a variety of situations. 

Support is given and adjustments are made for students with disabilities. However, IWLP language modules are communicative in nature and students are required to work in small groups. Also, students should be aware that spelling, grammar and sentence structure are assessed. In this respect the IWLP assessment is exempted from the University’s requirement to take specific learning difficulties into account when marking. For queries, contact iwlp@reading.ac.uk 

Aims:

This module aims to enable students: 

• to cope in a wide range of everyday situations in a Russian-speaking country and in those they would typically meet while studying there. It will focus on themes and topics related to university life and students’ interests; 


• to extend their cultural awareness and intercultural competence; 


• to develop strategies for coping with less common linguistic, social and cultural situations.  

Assessable learning outcomes:

By the end of the module students will be able to: 

• Communicate in Russian by speaking at an intermediate level about a selection of topics; 


• Understand the main points of clear, standard speech on familiar matters as well as the main points of short radio or TV programmes on topics of personal interest. 


• Understand and interact adequately with sympathetic native speakers or Russian users; 


• Recognise and use a range of Russian vocabulary as required, and start to obtain a small range of synonyms to enable them to communicate; this will include improving skills in using dictionaries and online sources of vocabulary; 


• Read and understand texts and articles on a variety of topics, and write a summary in Russian of the key points; 


• Achieve competence in the use of the most important grammatical structures of the language for their level in both speaking and writing; 


• Communicate in Russian in writing about a selection of defined everyday topics and within a defined range of genres, including report writing. 

Additional outcomes:

Students will be involved in regular group activities and pair work and will gain experience in oral presentations and joint activities. They will make progress through developing skills of self-study and application and will develop an awareness of and sensitivity to understand the society and culture of contemporary Russia. They will be able to understand the main points of any standard spoken and written text, dealing with familiar topics.  

Outline content:

Students will learn: 

• to discuss topics of both personal and wider interest; 


• to express their opinions orally and in writing; 


• to interact effectively with native speakers in a social and practical context; 


• to extract information from a standard spoken or written text.

Global context:

IWLP language modules provide students with opportunities for intercultural learning, increased intercultural awareness and an appreciation of diversity which enable learners to make connections between their immediate context and the global context.

Brief description of teaching and learning methods:

The module provides a systematic approach to acquiring essential grammar structures in a communicative context. Teaching methods are based on interactive language development tasks, such as group work and role playing, and include the study of short texts, oral development work and listening comprehension exercises. Learning activities are supported by various media such as audio and, where appropriate, computer software. The module is taught as far as possible in the target language.

Summative assessment- Examinations:

Final written exam (Reading and writing): 35% (2 hours).

The examination for this module will require a narrowly defined time window and is likely to be held in a dedicated exam venue.

Summative assessment- Coursework and in-class tests:

Spring term week 4: Project: Oral discussion 10% (15 minutes) 

Spring term week 5: Project: written report 15% (500-600 words) 

Spring term week 11: In class test: Listening test 15% (1 hour) 

Summer term week 1-3: Oral exam 25% (maximum 30 minutes)  

Formative assessment methods:

In order to consolidate and develop their language learning, students are encouraged to complete regular tasks – in class and outside – on which feedback is provided.  

Penalties for late submission:

Assessment requirements for a pass:

40% overall for UG students,  

50% overall for PGT students.

Reassessment arrangements:

Re-sit in August/September examinations period on the basis of examination only (relative percentages: oral examination 40%, written paper 60%) 

Additional Costs (specified where applicable):

1. Required text books: Students are required to buy the course book (approx. £30) 


2. Specialist equipment or materials:


3. Specialist clothing, footwear or headgear:


4. Printing and binding:


5. Computers and devices with a particular specification:


6. Travel, accommodation and subsistence:

Last updated: 22 September 2022