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Read Russian

4.8 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Based on 98 ratings
see reviews
Nancy Howland Walker

Who has time to learn a new language?. If you're planning a trip to Russia or any country using the Cyrillic alphabet, this course is for you. In just an hour and a half, you can be a master at reading Russian. Which means you will be able to read and understand hundreds of words, simply because they are the same as words you already know. Getting around will be much easier and way more interesting, as you will be able to translate many signs.

Read more

Who has time to learn a new language?. If you're planning a trip to Russia or any country using the Cyrillic alphabet, this course is for you. In just an hour and a half, you can be a master at reading Russian. Which means you will be able to read and understand hundreds of words, simply because they are the same as words you already know. Getting around will be much easier and way more interesting, as you will be able to translate many signs.

Nancy Howland Walker has been teaching nearly her entire life - topics from Russian and English as a Second Language, to Sailing and Improv Comedy. Her teaching style is easy going and fun.

Enroll now

What's inside

Learning objective

Read and understand hundreds and hundreds of words in russian without learning the language!

Syllabus

Master the Russian Alphabet

A brief introduction to the course, showing the different elements and how the course is put together.

In this lesson you learn the letters: A, E, O, K, M,T and C.

Read more

In this lesson you learn the letters P and H.

In this lesson you learn the letters B, Y and X

In this lesson you learn the letters г and д.

In this lesson you learn the letters л, п and ф.

In this lesson you will learn the letters ш and ц.

In this lesson you will learn the letters б and ж.

In this lesson you will learn the letters з, и and й.

In this lesson you will learn the letters ч, щ and э.

In this lesson you will learn the letters ю, я, ы and ё.

We will conclude this course with the final phonetic symbols ь and ъ. We will also take a quick look at cursive and italic letters.

Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Focuses on practical reading skills, which is immediately useful for navigating and understanding signs while traveling
Provides a foundation in the Russian alphabet, enabling learners to decode and pronounce words even without understanding grammar
Offers a condensed learning experience, allowing learners to quickly grasp the basics of reading Russian in a short amount of time
Highlights the similarities between Russian and other languages, enabling learners to leverage their existing vocabulary to understand Russian words
Includes a brief overview of cursive and italic letters, which may be helpful for reading handwritten texts and understanding different writing styles

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Create your own learning path. Save this course to your list so you can find it easily later.
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Reviews summary

Quick guide to reading cyrillic

According to learners, this course offers a quick and effective way to start reading the Russian Cyrillic alphabet. Students report being able to decode signs and recognize familiar words relatively quickly, often within the stated time frame. While learners find the instructor's style engaging and helpful, it's crucial to understand that the course focuses solely on reading and does not cover speaking, grammar, or extensive pronunciation. It is highly praised by those seeking a practical skill for travel rather than full language fluency. The overall sentiment is largely positive for its stated purpose and efficiency.
Designed specifically for reading Cyrillic
"It doesn't teach you the language, which is fine, but important to note."
"It teaches you the alphabet, but don't expect to understand sentences or have any grasp of grammar. Useful for reading a few signs, but limited."
"It is *only* reading though, no pronunciation help really beyond saying the letter sounds."
"Course covers reading, not speaking/grammar"
Teaching approach is engaging and helpful
"The instructor's method is brilliant..."
"Instructor is fun."
"Instructor is enthusiastic."
"Her teaching style is easy going and fun."
Helps read signs and familiar words abroad
"just wanted to be able to read signs and menus. In just over an hour, I felt confident I could decode the Cyrillic alphabet..."
"Perfect for someone like me who just wants a quick skill for a vacation."
"Getting around will be much easier and way more interesting, as you will be able to translate many signs."
"Perfect for getting ready for a trip."
Efficiently teaches reading Cyrillic script
"Amazing how fast I could start reading! This course delivers on its promise."
"Learned the alphabet quickly. It's true you can start reading many words that look like English."
"Exactly as advertised. Learned to read the alphabet and simple words in no time."
"Very focused and efficient."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Read Russian with these activities:
Review the Latin Alphabet
Familiarize yourself with the Latin alphabet to better understand the similarities and differences with the Cyrillic alphabet, aiding in quicker recognition and recall.
Show steps
  • Review the letters of the Latin alphabet.
  • Practice writing the letters.
  • Compare Latin letters to their Cyrillic counterparts.
Read 'Russian for Dummies'
Supplement your reading skills with a broader understanding of the Russian language, enhancing your overall comprehension and appreciation.
View Russian For Dummies on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'Russian for Dummies'.
  • Read the introductory chapters on pronunciation and basic grammar.
  • Focus on sections related to vocabulary and common phrases.
Cyrillic Letter Recognition Flashcards
Reinforce your recognition of Cyrillic letters through repetitive practice, solidifying your ability to quickly identify and read them.
Show steps
  • Create or download Cyrillic letter flashcards.
  • Practice identifying each letter quickly.
  • Focus on letters that are difficult to distinguish.
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Explore Online Russian Reading Resources
Refine your reading skills by following online tutorials that provide structured exercises and guidance on reading Russian text.
Show steps
  • Search for online tutorials on reading Russian.
  • Follow the exercises and instructions provided.
  • Practice reading Russian text using the techniques learned.
Create a Russian Sign Translation Guide
Apply your reading skills by creating a practical guide for translating common Russian signs, enhancing your ability to navigate real-world situations.
Show steps
  • Find images of common Russian signs.
  • Translate the signs using your knowledge of the Cyrillic alphabet.
  • Compile the translations into a guide.
Translate Russian Song Lyrics
Test and solidify your reading skills by translating the lyrics of a Russian song, combining language learning with cultural exploration.
Show steps
  • Choose a Russian song with available lyrics.
  • Translate the lyrics using your knowledge of the Cyrillic alphabet.
  • Compare your translation with existing translations.
Explore 'The Master and Margarita'
Immerse yourself in Russian literature to further develop your reading skills and gain a deeper appreciation for the language and culture.
View The Master and Margarita on Amazon
Show steps
  • Obtain a copy of 'The Master and Margarita'.
  • Select short passages to read and translate.
  • Use a dictionary to look up unfamiliar words.

Career center

Learners who complete Read Russian will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Translator
Translators convert written material from one language into another. This course, concentrated on mastering the Russian alphabet and reading comprehension, helps build a foundation for anyone interested in working with the Russian language. The ability to quickly decipher Russian text, as taught in this course, streamlines the process of initial understanding and analysis, essential first steps in accurate translation. By learning how to read and understand hundreds of Russian words, you gain a practical advantage in beginning translation work. The course curriculum is specifically designed to provide a high-yield introduction to the Russian alphabet, and helps provide familiarity required for continued language study.
See salaries and explore the career path for Translator
Travel Writer
Travel Writers document their experiences in different locations and cultures. If you are planning to write about Russia, the ability to read Russian helps you immerse yourself in the local environment and culture. This course, with its emphasis on quickly mastering the Russian alphabet and understanding hundreds of words, helps you decipher signs, menus, and other written materials encountered during travels. It helps build a foundation for understanding the local context, connecting with people, and writing more informed and engaging travel stories. Consider taking this course to become a Travel Writer.
See salaries and explore the career path for Travel Writer
Foreign Correspondent
Foreign Correspondents report on news and events from other countries. For those stationed in Russia or covering Russian affairs, the ability to read Russian is essential. This course, by focusing on mastering the Russian alphabet and understanding numerous words, helps build a foundation for engaging with local sources and understanding the cultural context. The skills gained here enhance a correspondent's ability to navigate the country, read local publications, and conduct more informed interviews. This course's direct approach to reading Russian helps build confidence and accelerates the learning process.
See salaries and explore the career path for Foreign Correspondent
Genealogist
Genealogists research and trace family histories. If you're tracing your ancestry back to Russia, the ability to read Russian records is vital. This course, with its emphasis on mastering the Russian alphabet and understanding common words, helps you decipher birth certificates, marriage records, and other genealogical documents written in Russian. This ability, gained through this course, enhances your research capabilities and allows you to uncover valuable information about your family's past. Consider taking this course to start your journey into genealogy.
See salaries and explore the career path for Genealogist
Cultural Liaison
Cultural Liaisons facilitate communication and understanding between people from different cultures. In roles involving Russian culture, the ability to read Russian is invaluable. This course, with its focus on mastering the Russian alphabet and understanding a wide range of words, helps you bridge cultural gaps and promote effective cross-cultural interactions. The skill of reading Russian, gained through this course, allows you to interpret cultural nuances, understand written communications, and build stronger relationships with individuals from Russian-speaking backgrounds. It is recommended that those striving to enter this field enroll in this course.
See salaries and explore the career path for Cultural Liaison
Intelligence Analyst
Intelligence Analysts gather and analyze information to support national security or law enforcement efforts. Given Russia's geopolitical importance, analysts who can read Russian are highly valuable. This course, with its emphasis on quickly mastering the Russian alphabet and understanding hundreds of words, helps equip aspiring analysts with a crucial skill. The ability to read Russian text, translate signs, and understand basic communications, provides a significant advantage in intelligence gathering and analysis. This course may be useful to those hoping to enter this field. The ability to rapidly parse Russian text helps analysts quickly assess the relevance and credibility of information.
See salaries and explore the career path for Intelligence Analyst
Historian
Historians research, analyze, and interpret the past. For those specializing in Russian history, the ability to read Russian primary sources is indispensable, often requiring advanced study with a master's or doctorate. This course, with its focus on mastering the Russian alphabet and understanding basic vocabulary, helps you begin your journey of engaging with original documents and texts. The skills gained here support the analysis and interpretation of historical events and trends. Historians may find this course to be the start of a valuable journey.
See salaries and explore the career path for Historian
Interpreter
Interpreters convert spoken language from one language into another. While this course focuses on reading Russian, it may be useful for aspiring interpreters who need to quickly understand written materials in Russian to provide accurate and informed interpretations. For an interpreter, the ability to swiftly decode written Russian, as emphasized in this course, translates into an enhanced capacity to prepare for interpreting sessions and understand background documents. The structured approach to mastering the Russian alphabet, offered in this course, helps establish a solid base for recognizing and understanding Russian words in various contexts, which is vital for effective communication during interpretation. This course helps to start your journey toward becoming an Interpreter.
See salaries and explore the career path for Interpreter
International Business Consultant
International Business Consultants advise companies on strategies for succeeding in global markets. This course may be useful to consultants who work with Russian-speaking markets or businesses. The ability to read and understand Russian, even at a basic level, allows a consultant to navigate documents, communications, and cultural nuances more effectively. This knowledge, gained through this course's focus on mastering the Russian alphabet and recognizing common words, enhances a consultant's ability to conduct market research and forge stronger relationships with international partners. Learning to read the language gives important context.
See salaries and explore the career path for International Business Consultant
Diplomat
Diplomats represent their country's interests and negotiate with foreign governments. For those working in Russia or dealing with Russian affairs, understanding the language is immensely valuable. This course, which concentrates on mastering the Russian alphabet and understanding a wide range of words, helps promote effective communication and cultural understanding. The capacity to read Russian documents, signage, and media, gained from this course, enhances a diplomat's ability to navigate complex situations and build relationships with Russian counterparts. Those considering a role as a Diplomat may find this course useful in advancing their career.
See salaries and explore the career path for Diplomat
Market Research Analyst
Market Research Analysts study market conditions to examine potential sales of a product or service. If you are interested in the Russian markets, the ability to read Russian may enhance your ability to directly analyze Russian publications, websites, and other sources of data. This course, with its focus on mastering the Russian alphabet and understanding basic vocabulary, helps you get started when gathering insights into consumer behavior and market trends. This course may be useful to those looking to become a Market Research Analyst.
See salaries and explore the career path for Market Research Analyst
Archivist
Archivists assess, collect, organize, preserve, and control records and documents of enduring value. If you work with Russian historical documents, the ability to read Russian is essential. This course, with its emphasis on mastering the Russian alphabet and understanding numerous words, helps you decipher and catalog archival materials written in Russian. This knowledge, gained here, enhances your ability to research, describe, and provide access to Russian language records, ensuring their preservation and accessibility for future generations. This course may be useful for your journey to becoming an archivist.
See salaries and explore the career path for Archivist
Librarian
Librarians manage and organize collections of information, including books and periodicals. For those working in libraries with Russian language collections, the ability to read Russian is essential. This course, with its direct focus on mastering the Russian alphabet and understanding numerous words, helps librarians catalog, preserve, and make accessible Russian language materials. This knowledge, developed in this course, enhances a librarian's ability to assist patrons, conduct research, and manage acquisitions related to Russian language resources. This course may be useful to those hoping to become a Librarian.
See salaries and explore the career path for Librarian
Technical Writer
Technical Writers prepare instruction manuals, how-to guides, and other supporting documents to communicate complex and technical information more easily. This course may be useful for Technical Writers who need to understand or translate technical documents from Russian sources. The course's emphasis on quickly mastering the Russian alphabet and understanding hundreds of words helps you decipher technical terminology and processes described in Russian. This helps build a foundation for accurately conveying information to an English-speaking audience. It is recommended that those striving to enter this field enroll in this course.
See salaries and explore the career path for Technical Writer
Logistics Coordinator
Logistics Coordinators manage and coordinate the supply chain, ensuring smooth and efficient movement of goods and materials. In companies that trade with Russia, the ability to read Russian on shipping manifests and other documents may be useful. This course may be useful to Logistics Coordinators, as it helps you quickly master the Russian alphabet and understand basic vocabulary related to shipping and transportation. This allows for more informed decision-making. This course is a great place to start your journey to a role as Logistics Coordinator.
See salaries and explore the career path for Logistics Coordinator

Reading list

We've selected one books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Read Russian.
Cover image
Russian For Dummies
Save
Provides a comprehensive introduction to the Russian language, covering grammar, vocabulary, and pronunciation. While the course focuses on reading Russian, this book offers a broader understanding of the language, which can enhance comprehension and provide context. It's a good resource for those who want to go beyond just reading and start speaking or understanding more complex sentences.
Russian For Dummies
Paperback
$$
Russian For Dummies
Paperback
$$
Russian Phrases For Dummies
Paperback
$
Russian for Dummies (Russian Edition)
Paperback
$$
Russian For Dummies
Kindle Edition
$$
Russian Phrases For Dummies
Kindle Edition
$
Russian For Dummies
Kindle Edition
$$

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Course image
Rating
4.8 Filled star Filled star Filled star Filled star Half star
Effort
2 total hours
Via
Udemy
Instructor
Nancy Howland Walker
Language
English
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Focuses on practical reading skills, which is immediately useful for navigating and understanding signs while traveling
Provides a foundation in the Russian alphabet, enabling learners to decode and pronounce words even without understanding grammar
Offers a condensed learning experience, allowing learners to quickly grasp the basics of reading Russian in a short amount of time
Highlights the similarities between Russian and other languages, enabling learners to leverage their existing vocabulary to understand Russian words
Includes a brief overview of cursive and italic letters, which may be helpful for reading handwritten texts and understanding different writing styles
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