Course Description and Format
Conducted in Russian, this course uses an interactive approach to develop advanced skills in speaking and writing. The goal is to help students reach an intermediate–advanced level of proficiency while significantly expanding their vocabulary.
In this course, you will explore the following topics:
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- Youth and Society
- City, Suburb, and Village
- Economy and Society
- Family
- Crime and Punishment
- “The Darling” by Anton Chekhov
- A Russian film (TBA)
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A variety of resources are used to support learning and deepen cultural understanding, including literature, online materials, films, and cartoons.
Please note that students entering this course may have different levels of prior experience with Russian, including heritage speakers. Typically, three groups of learners are represented:
- Group 1: Continuing students with no prior exposure beyond formal coursework
- Group 2: Heritage speakers with informal exposure through family but no formal training
- Group 3: Students with prior formal or structured (formal or non-formal) instruction in Russian
Evaluation
- Attendance and Participation 10%
- Homework Assignments. 15%
- In-Class Quizzes & Tests 35%
- Individual Presentation 15%
- In-Class Essay 1 10%
- In-Class Essay 2 15%
Assignments and Assessment
Attendance and Participation (10%)
According to the UBC Academic Calendar, regular attendance is expected in all classes (lectures, seminars, tutorials, etc.). Students who neglect their academic responsibilities may be excluded from final examinations.
Participation grades reflect consistent preparation, engagement in class activities, and contributions to discussions.
Homework Assignments (15%)
Assignments will be graded on a completion basis. Students who submit thoughtful and complete work on time will receive full credit.
Late submissions will receive a maximum of 80% of the assignment value.
In-Class Quizzes & Tests (35%)
There will be four in-class written tests based on course material. Details will be provided one week in advance.
Individual Presentation (15%)
You will deliver a five-minute presentation on a topic of your choice.
Assessment criteria include preparation, pronunciation, fluency, and accuracy. You may use a cue card with brief notes (no full sentences). Reading from a script will result in a lower grade.
Scoring Guidelines:
- Exceptional (95–100%) — Well-prepared, fluent, no pronunciation errors
- Outstanding (90–94%) — Fluent with minor pronunciation errors
- Competent (85–89%) — Generally fluent with some errors
- Satisfactory (70–84%) — Some preparation; frequent reliance on notes
- Adequate (50–69%) — Reads from notes; limited fluency
- Inadequate (0–49%) — Difficult to understand; significant pronunciation issues
Note: Expectations for pronunciation may differ slightly for heritage learners.
In-Class Essays (25%)
There will be two in-class essays. Topics will be provided in advance.
The first in-class essay is designed as a lower-stakes opportunity to practice expectations and receive feedback. The second essay carries greater weight as it reflects your progress and ability to apply that feedback.
Scoring Rubric:
- Exceptional (90–100%) — Wide range of structures; minimal errors
- Outstanding (80–89%) — Variety of structures; few errors
- Competent (70–79%) — Some variety; noticeable errors
- Satisfactory (60–69%) — Basic structures; frequent errors
- Adequate (50–59%) — Limited structures; errors affect understanding
- Inadequate (0–49%) — Very limited language; not comprehensible
There are no traditional midterms or final exams in this course.
Staying Well in RUSS_V302
Learning a language is challenging but rewarding. To support your success:
- Build connections with classmates (in class or on Canvas)
- Form study groups or chat groups (e.g., WhatsApp)
- Participate in CENES events such as Slavic Tea
- Reach out if you are struggling — support is available
Course Policy
We value respect, honesty, and collaboration. Students are expected to:
- Respect diverse backgrounds and perspectives
- Act with integrity and kindness
- Contribute to a positive learning environment
Academic Integrity
Assignments should reflect your own work using course vocabulary and structures. This allows for accurate assessment and meaningful feedback.
Grade Review
Final grades will be posted on Canvas. Students have three business days to report any discrepancies. After this period, grades are finalized and submitted to Workday.
Grades are rounded to the nearest whole number (0.5 rounds up).
Late Work & Policies
- Homework, participation, and presentations: Accepted until the last day of class with a 20% penalty
- Tests and in-class essays: Must be completed as scheduled
- Make-ups are allowed only in cases of documented illness or serious emergency
- Academic workload, travel, or scheduling conflicts are not valid reasons
UBC Policies & Resources
Students are responsible for familiarizing themselves with:
Applying for Academic Concession
Resources to Support Student Success
Accommodations for Religious Holidays and Days of Significance