Modern Foreign Languages

Russian

Russian is the world’s largest country and it has one of the fastest-growing economies. Job opportunities for Russian-speaking graduates of British universities are at an all-time high. In other words, there has never been a more important time to study Russian.

The department uses a wide range of materials including DVDs, computer software, PowerPoint, commercially-produced text-books and teacher-made resources.

There is a lunch-time Russian clinic each week for pupils who require extra help.

Key Stage 4

Assessment is by examination in the four language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. The specification for this course is Edexcel; there is a single level of examination entry, written papers and a short oral test.

Every GCSE candidate is offered a personalised audio recording to help them to prepare for their speaking examination.

A-level

Learning
Students develop their abilities in listening, speaking, reading and writing for the purposes of practical, everyday communication. They gain a sound knowledge of grammar and an understanding of the culture and way of life of Russia.

Materials

The course emphasises a practical, hands-on approach to language learning. A wide range of teaching materials is used, including newspaper articles, the Internet, video and audio recordings. Students have a conversation class every week. The school’s multimedia suite is available for at least one lesson per week and for self-access listening practice.

Course requirements

Students must:

• Have at least a grade B GCSE in Russian
• Be hard-working and well-motivated
• Enjoy meeting challenges
• Be prepared to spend some time each week learning new vocabulary and grammar
• Have an interest in communication

• Have an interest in learning about Russia