Organization of the Program

Natasha Simes, Coordinator of Russian, Rome 318; tel: (202) 663-5754;

Schedule

All language classes are taught within "language-block" times, i.e., on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10:45 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. and Wednesdays and Fridays from 8 a.m to 11 a.m. Beginning and Intermediate 1 and 2 classes are held four times a week, 90 minutes per class. Advanced classes are twice a week, 90 minutes per class. Class schedules are determined during an Organizational Meeting.

Preparation of home-work

Preparation of home-work is an essential part of the course because it allows students to internalize the material studied in class. Students are expected to spend from 1.5 to 2 hours at home for every one hour of class-time so as to interact well in class.

Attendance

Learning a foreign language is a process which requires regular attendance, because active participation and class interaction are additional parts of the internalization process. The SAIS Language Program allows five absences. It is better to come to class unprepared rather than miss it.

Drop-add period

Students who drop a class after the drop-add period receive an F at the end of the semester according to SAIS requirements.