Durham University
Programme and Module Handbook

Undergraduate Programme and Module Handbook 2026-2027

Module RUSS2191: Russian Language 2A

Department: Modern Languages and Cultures (Russian)

RUSS2191: Russian Language 2A

Type Tied Level 2 Credits 20 Availability Available in 2026/2027 Module Cap None. Location Durham
Tied to R002
Tied to RV91
Tied to RV92
Tied to LA01
Tied to LA02
Tied to LA03
Tied to LMV0
Tied to LMVA
Tied to LMVP

Prerequisites

  • Russian Language 1A (RUSS1161) or level equivalent to B1.2 (CEFR).

Corequisites

  • At least one additional level 2 module with a RUSS prefix.

Excluded Combination of Modules

  • Russian Language 2B (RUSS2012) or any Russian module offered in CFLS.

Aims

  • To build on the knowledge and skills acquired in Russian Language 1A.
  • To consolidate and develop comprehensive linguistic and communicative competence across mediation, reading, writing, listening, and speaking to a level equivalent to at least B2 (CEFR)
  • To deepen knowledge of the grammatical system and the ability to use grammatical structures and vocabulary appropriate to this level
  • To deepen awareness of the culture(s) of the target language, in order to support their study of the language and to prepare them for their Year Abroad.
  • To develop metalinguistic competence, independent learning strategies and digital literacy.

Content

  • The module draws on a range of authentic materials from various regions and includes:
  • Consolidation of key grammatical and linguistic structures and functions appropriate to at least CEFR Level B2.
  • A broad range of communicative tasks involving written, spoken, and audiovisual material designed to develop expression in the target language and transferable skills.
  • Translation practice
  • Activities focussed on intercultural communication, cultural diversity, digital literacy, and the use of AI tools for language learning.
  • Practical preparation for the year abroad.

Learning Outcomes

Subject-specific Knowledge:
  • By the end of this module, students should have acquired:
  • A range of Russian vocabulary, a knowledge of Russian grammar and linguistic competence equivalent to at least Level B2 of the CEFR.
  • Enhanced awareness of linguistic and cultural diversity.
  • Practical knowledge relevant to real-life contexts, including preparation for the year abroad.
Subject-specific Skills:
  • By the end of this module, students should be able to:
  • Converse, write and read in Russian at a level of fluency appropriate to at least CEFR B2
  • Consolidate their knowledge of key grammatical points and apply them flexibly in varied communicative contexts
  • Compare Russian and English syntax with attention to cultural and contextual appropriateness.
  • Use digital tools, including AI-assisted resources, to support language learning and self-correction.
  • Draw on their intercultural competence and language, critical thinking and organisational skills to adapt to and communicate and interact in a variety of contexts abroad.
Key Skills:
  • By the end of this module, students will have developed:
  • Their language learning skills
  • Their communication, mediation and presentation skills
  • Their ability to work independently and collaborate effectively in groups
  • Their intercultural competence, digital literacy, adaptability and employability.

Modes of Teaching, Learning and Assessment and how these contribute to the learning outcomes of the module

  • The course will be delivered through a variety of teaching and learning methods including classes in the target language, directed and independent study.
  • Classes will facilitate active learning and will allow students to develop their familiarity with a wide range of grammatical structures and vocabulary and to use these appropriately across a range of contexts and will enable engagement with a broad variety of cultural artifacts. In-year formative and summative assessment, devised to monitor and support learning, will prepare students for the final examinations.
  • The end-of-year written and oral examinations should take place in person, on campus.

Teaching Methods and Learning Hours

Activity Number Frequency Duration Total/Hours Attendance Monitored
Language Classes 60 3 classes weekly 1 hour 60 Yes
Preparation and Reading 140
Total 200

Summative Assessment

Component: Examination Component Weighting: 80%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
On Campus Written Examination 2 hours 75%
Oral Examination 15 minutes (10 minutes speaking time) 25%
Component: In-Year Assessments Component Weighting: 20%
Element Length / duration Element Weighting Resit Opportunity
Assignment 75%
Assignment 25%

Formative Assessment:

Regular assessed tasks across all language skills, that may include oral presentations, written assignments, and translation. Activities may also incorporate AI-supported tools and collaborative tasks to reinforce learning and prepare students for real-world communication and the year abroad. Formative feedback will be a combination of self- assessment, peer feedback, oral and written tutor feedback.


Students who do not attend monitored activities shown under Teaching Methods and Learning Hours, or who fail to complete the summative or formative assessment(s) specified above, may be subject to the Academic Progress procedures defined in the University's General Regulation V, and may be required to leave the University.