This course begins the Russian language sequence and is offered in the Fall semester only. The course takes a communicative approach to teaching basic skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing. Language is presented in communicative contexts illustrating cultural aspects of daily Russian life. Special emphasis is given to developing oral competency. Attendance is required at four hourly class meetings per week. A fifth hour per week is spent on consultation and conversation practice with a course assistant. One to two hours per day must be devoted to study and homework assignments. The elementary level is designed to help students learn to reflect upon and draw upon strategies used by good language learners in their second language study. Prerequisites: None.