Class theme/topics discussed:

– September, 1 in Russia + comparison to the US

How did you pick this theme or topic?

Students were interested in education in Russia, plus the topic was relevant for the beginning of the semester.

How did you present the material? (handouts, group work, general discussion, student presentations, etc.)

Handouts with exercises, texts, and questions
Watching a video- http://www.1tv.ru/news/social/150890
Listening to a song- http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kt0EyZcPjtg&feature=PlayList&p=0DAFBC3221E2EFDA

How did students react?
They liked both the video and the song.

Did they engage with each other and you?
Yes.

What materials or media did you use? (articles, satellite tv, digital projector, etc.)
TV-screen, laptop.

Please attach a copy.- FULL LESON PLAN AND A HANDOUT IS IN THE ATTACHMENT: 1 September in Russia

Would you recommend this activity for a future class?
Yes.

Why or why not?
It introduces to the students one of the Russian special events through various activities – reading, grammar exercises, listening and watching a real newsvideo on one of the Russian major channels