Test of Russian as a Foreign Language (TORFL/ТРКИ): A1

Successful performance in the Elementary Level indicates the general knowledge of Russian as a foreign language and the candidate’s ability to deal with most basic communicative needs in a limited number of familiar sociocultural and educational situations. The beginner-level certificate holder has developed the language competencies necessary for further language learning to attain the A2 level of Russian language proficiency.

The course consists of 6 weeks, with the first week introducing learners to the structure and basic requirements for the examination. Each of the following weeks focuses on the particular subtest of the exam - Vocabulary and Grammar, Reading, Listening, Writing, Speaking. Short lectures with tips from the expert examiners are followed by sample tests.

Upon completion of this course, the learner will be fully prepared for the format, procedure and the main rules of the examination.

The form of education is online. Weekly classes will include watching thematic video lectures, studying additional materials and completing tests with automated verification of results. All assignments must be completed to obtain a certificate.

Level of Russian - A1.

Module 1

In the first module of the course, we are going to learn the most important information about the TORFL (ТРКИ), its levels, reasons to sit this examination, as well as requirements and competencies that a candidate is expected to meet at the A1 level. We will also talk about the exam procedure and two main options for a candidate to sit TORFL (ТРКИ).

Module 2

In the second module, we are going to focus on the Vocabulary & Grammar part of the test. This part might seem easy, but in fact, you need to answer a lot of questions in a very limited time. We are going to learn how to use your time efficiently, apply some practical tips recommended by the examiners and complete quizzes on every section of this subtest.

Module 3

In this module, we are going to consider the Reading part in detail. It is one of the most enjoyable parts since you can complete the test and learn something new and interesting about Russia from these texts. You will have a chance to apply various reading techniques and practice completing reading tests.

Module 4

In this module, we are going to focus on Listening. It might seem like quite a difficult part, but if you know the basic principles and can catch the key words and phrases, you will complete this part easily. Practice makes perfect, so don't miss the opportunity to complete the quizzes with examples of tasks from real examinations.

Module 5

We are moving on to Writing. We are going to analyze the most common mistakes which a candidate might make in his writing, and learn how to avoid them. You will have an opportunity to practice writing and assessing your coursemates'  works according to examination standards.

Module 6

In the final week of our course, we are going to discuss the most challenging part of the exam — Speaking. This part doesn't only require a certain competence in Russian, but also the ability to react to different situations and maintain communication in various settings. We are going to analyze interviews with candidates and learn to spot the most common mistakes.

Upon completion of this course, learners will be familiar with:

1. the exam structure for the Elementary Level;

2. key topics of all subtests;

3. the assessment grid of the exam.

Learners know how to:

1. allocate exam time efficiently;

2. determine key elements in the tasks and complete them successfully;

3. complete Writing and Speaking parts and assess their results.

Learners will be able to:

1. analyse sentences and texts at A1 level;

2. perceive information and interpret it at A1 level;

3. produce written texts and participate in the conversation at A1 level

The course is aimed at the formation of general learning competencies for Bachelor's and Specialist's programs, as well as other competencies included in the education program.