Russian for Young Learners Stories & Songs

Language acquisition begins with listening, and this joyful introductory course, Russian for Young Learners Stories & Songs, embraces that truth. Using the Total Physical Response (TPR) method, students learn Russian by moving, listening, and responding—a gentle, low‑stress approach that boosts comprehension and memory by linking spoken language to physical action. Through this immersive, movement‑based experience, students gain confidence in the basics of the Russian language while delighting in the beauty of its stories and songs.

Young learners will begin building a strong foundation in Russian as they:

• Recognize basic Russian alphabet letters and early vocabulary
• Respond physically to simple spoken instructions
• Absorb language patterns through repetition, rhythm, and song
• Explore the richness of Russian culture through folklore, stories, and traditional melodies

Homework will reinforce classroom learning through simple, family-friendly activities such as:

• Reviewing how the Russian alphabet looks and sounds
• Reading Russian folktales together at home (in English)
• Labeling household items with Russian vocabulary cards
• Learning and practicing simple Russian songs
• Begin practicing basic Russian copywork

By the end of the course, young learners will be able to:

• Read and pronounce the Russian alphabet
• Recognize simple Russian vocabulary
• Sing traditional Russian folk songs
• Read classic Russian folk stories with a family member (in English)
• Encounter Russian culture and history, including elements of the Russian Orthodox tradition
• Learn about beloved Russian saints such as St. Seraphim of Sarov

• Computer: You will need a stable, reliable computer, running with a processor with a speed of 1 GHz or better on one of the following operating systems: Mac OS X with Mac OS 10.7 or later; Windows 8, 7, Vista (with SP1 or later), or XP (with SP3 or later). We do not recommend using an iPad or other tablet for joining classes. An inexpensive laptop or netbook would be much better solutions, as they enable you to plug an Ethernet cable directly into your computer. Please note that Chromebooks are allowed but not preferred, as they do not support certain features of the Zoom video conference software such as breakout sessions and annotation, which may be used by our teachers for class activities.
• High-Speed Internet Connection: You will also need access to high-speed Internet, preferably accessible via Ethernet cable right into your computer. Using Wi-Fi may work, but will not guarantee you the optimal use of your bandwidth. The faster your Internet, the better. We recommend using a connection with a download/upload speed of 5/1 Mbps or better. You can test your Internet connection here.
• Webcam: You may use an external webcam or one that is built in to the computer. Webcam Recommendations: Good (PC only) | Best (Mac and PC)
• Headset: We recommend using a headset rather than a built-in microphone and speakers. Using a headset reduces the level of background noise heard by the entire class. Headset Recommendations: USB | 3.5mm
• Zoom: We use a web conferencing software called Zoom for our classes, which enables students and teachers to gather from around the globe face to face in real time. Zoom is free to download and easy to use. To download Zoom:
  1. Visit zoom.us/download.
  2. Click to download the first option listed, Zoom Client for Meetings.
  3. Open and run the installer on your computer.
  4. In August, students will be provided with instructions and a link for joining their particular class.
• Scanner: In this class, students frequently submit homework assignments by scanning pages from their workbooks. Students and/or their parents should have easy access to a scanner and the ability to use it.