Test of Russian as a Foreign Language (TORFL/ТРКИ): B1

This course is aimed at those who have completed their studies of the Russian language at A2-B1 level and feel ready to pass the First Certification Level of the Test of Russian as a Foreign Language (TORFL, or ТРКИ). Successful performance in the First Level Certificate indicates an intermediate level of competence, which enables a candidate to satisfy his main communicative needs in everyday, cultural, educational and professional spheres in line with the State Standard of Competence in Russian as a Foreign Language. In addition, the First Level Certificate allows its holder to enroll in a Russian university.
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.

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 B1 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 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 First Certification 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 and assess their results.

Learners will be able to:

1. analyse sentences and texts at B1 level;

2. perceive information interprete it at B1 level;

3. produce written texts and participate in the conversation at B1 level.

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