Way to Russia Talk Lounge

bryak · Posted: Fri Oct 28, 2005 7:09 am Post subject: Beginner

What are some of the best internet sights to learn to speak Russian, does anybody know?

Also, if I work diligently every day and use a variety of online resources, books, and tapes, how far along do you think I could come in speaking Russian in eight months or so? Bear in mind that I speak zero Russian right now. So will I still be a beginner in eight months? Or will I be proficient enough to carry on a conversation with your average vodka-filled Russian man?

Paul Holmes · VIP Joined: 12 Apr 2005 Posts: 969

Try the site www.masterrussion.com
Get a penpal. Many Russians are learning English as penpals, because English is an universal language to travel.
Ability to learn Russian depends on an individual. If you are looking for classes, there is a Russian Convienence store in West Edmonton (I think 154 St and 84 ave) it is an apartment building across from Safeway and Brewster Brew pub.(tall brown building). Anyways, go there and ask the staff for local tutor and they will help you.

Ekaterina · Posted: Fri Oct 28, 2005 9:52 pm Post subject:

bryak: you wont be able to understand vodka-filled men, they don't speak, they mumble, but you may drink vodka together without any conversation.

Norwegian · Posted: Sat Oct 29, 2005 12:49 am Post subject:

Hi
It seems that actually USA is a good place to learn Russian, due to the large numbers of Russian people living there.. But is there any organized language schools in NYC? And, is there any advantages of studying russian in USA instead Russia for a foreigner like me? (I live in Norway). I do speak English, so maybe it's easier to learn it from someone that speaks both Russian and English?
Hope this wasn't too confusing to comprehend.. Razz

manxi · Posted: Sat Oct 29, 2005 12:38 pm Post subject:

Norwegian, if you want to do a Russian course, it would definitely be better to attend a course in Russia rather than the US and really immerse yourself in the language. You'd learn a lot faster that way.

You won't need explanations in English. Beginner courses will be dosed so that beginners of many different nationalities can follow them. I would just take a good grammar book along for your own reference. You would have the opportunity of practicising the language outside of the classroom and I imagine it would be cheaper too.

You could learn the alphabet before you go and maybe do an introductory course in Norway to give yourself some confidence. Your adult education centres are supposed to be first class - like all eduation in Norway. Do they offer Russian courses?

Rick · Posted: Sat Oct 29, 2005 4:01 pm Post subject:

In a place like St. Petersburg, it is likely that there will be more Norwegians following a Russian course. Quite some scandinavian people walking around there..

bryak · Posted: Sat Oct 29, 2005 8:43 pm Post subject: Tutor

Paul Holmes - thanks for the tip. A Russian tutor would probably be the best and fastest way to learn. I'll have to look into that.

Norwegian · Posted: Wed Nov 02, 2005 9:40 pm Post subject:

Norwegian · Posted: Wed Nov 02, 2005 9:43 pm Post subject:

MrSpice · Lounge Wizard Joined: 14 Jul 2003 Posts: 3436

There are certainly lots and lots of russians in New York City. But I have never seen any courses where one would learn russian since everyone here who does not speak English wants to learn English. I am sure you can find lots of people who will informally teach you russian. Many of those who were teachers in Russia (say, English teachers) can't find a decent job here and would be happy to teach you russian for a few extra bucks. However, Russia is closer to you geographically and you will be immerced into the language there everywhere, that's true.