Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
🌆 How can I master Russian in Oakland, CA and what does it take in terms of commitment?
Besides self-study with recorded courses, you have several principal possibilities for learning Russian interactively in Oakland, CA. First, universities and community colleges are an especially good idea for in-state residents. Also, ask about the centers for continuing education and professional studies (they are cheaper.) Your other option can be local private language academies that cost less and flexible in schedule and requirements. Third, not-for-profit learning centers usually offer cheaper group and more expensive in-person courses. 4th and last, you can opt for a private Russian tutor in Oakland, CA. If flexibility is key, you can compare local Oakland, CA and online Russian tutors.
🎟 Is it cheap to learn Russian and what are the ballpark lesson costs for Russian tutors?
For university and college courses you can estimate Russian course cost by dividing annual tuition by 10 (one course is usually 3 out of 30 credit hours offered) to get the overall charge for fifty or so lesson hours each semester. Language academies and private Russian tutors charge $30-55 per hourly group lesson, with private classes starting around $50 or more. Some of the more affordable Russian tutors can be found online, with tuition on Preply averaging 19 and tutor rates varying widely based on tutor location, experience and specialization. Average reviews for Russian lessons on Preply is 4.95 out of 5 stars.
📚 What are the requirements for Russian language skill level to sign up for a course?
When considering college and learning center classes be prepared pass a few pre-requisites. Predetermined curriculum classes vary widely in terms of textbook quality, homework commitment and tests, so research all such requirements in advance. With personal Russian tutors you can find out in advance for whom the tutor is effective with and which other expertise they make available (like classes for students of A, B, or C leves, etc.) For best flexibility, choose a tutor from a wide selection of those teaching online.
🔥 Why is Russian not easy and are there ways to learn it faster?
Formal language instruction practiced in schools is not the most effective way to learn Russian. Realistically, you can gain basic Russian fluency in 300 hours from zero knowledge. Studying and getting feedback five hours a week you will be able to understand many expressions, have simple conversations, socialize in about a year. Offline interaction is not a practical option for everyone, so online classes are a fast and affordable way of acquiring the basic knowledge of Russian. After acquiring basic skills, online marketplaces like Preply have Russian tutors who specialize in intensive classes for intermediate and advanced speakers.
🤷 How long does it take to get better at speaking Russian?
Some people seem to have a natural ability and learn languages quickly, but for most to go beyond the basics and gain working fluency in Russian will demand at least 600 hours of active use. The required duration of time can differ quite a bit depending on your available level of Russian or proficiency in other languages in the same group. After alphabet and basic reading it is advised to use the language as often as possible: watch television, write using your new language skills, look for native speakers to speak with, try more ways to think and speak in Russian out loud. If you're struggling when starting a discusssion you can also take conversational Russian classes online.
🤳 Can I pick my own Russian teacher?
In colleges and universities, there's a chance you can choose your own tutor (from up to a dozen teachers). Online, always! The largest selection of pre-screened Russian tutors with detailed profiles and real student reviews is available on online language learning platforms like Preply.
🗓 What's the best time to schedule classes?
Colleges structure classes twice a week over a semester (75-day period). Language schools usually offer shorter, 8-week, 12-week, and 16-week course sessions. Online, the number of lessons is really up to you, with early morning, day, evening and night classes available, on weekdays and/or weekends.