CSET — Russian

The CSET — Russian exam is broken down into three subtests. The first subtest has 15 multiple-choice questions and 1 short-answer question dealing with general linguistics, and 25 multiple-choice questions, and 2 short-answer questions dealing with linguistics of the Russian language. The second subtest has 20 multiple-choice questions on literary and cultural texts and traditions; and 20 multiple-choice questions on cultural analysis and comparisons; and 1 extended constructed-response question dealing with both topics. The third subtest has 15 multiple-choice questions and 1 short-answer question on Russian language listening comprehension; 15 multiple-choice and 1 short- answer question on Russian language reading comprehension; 1 short-answer question and 1 extended constructed-response question on Russian language and written expression; and 2 short-answer questions on Russian oral expression.

The first CSET — Russian subtest is broken down into a section on general linguistics, and a section on Russian language and linguistics. The general linguistics portion covers the nature of language, language use, and applied linguistics. The section dealing specifically with the Russian language covers language structures, error analysis, the ability to contrast Russian language with English, and sociolinguistics, including an understanding of the formation of dialects.

The second CSET — Russian subtest covers literary and cultural texts of the Russian language. Included in this are an understanding of the major movements, genres, writers, and works. It also includes analysis of literary and cultural texts including novels, plays, and music. The second section of the second subtest requires the candidate to demonstrate knowledge of cultural perspectives, cultural practices, and cultural products of Russia. This includes knowledge of Russian architecture, art, entertainment, and fashion.

The third CSET — Russian subtest is broken down into sections on listening comprehension of Russian, written expression in Russian, and oral expression in Russian. The listening comprehension section tests literal comprehension, inferential and interpretive comprehension, and the ability to critically analyze spoken Russian to determine the speaker's point of view and the appropriateness of the speaker's tone to the given audience. The written communication section tests the candidate's ability to literally translate Russian to English, to understand inference and interpretation in written Russian, and to critically analyze Russian texts, and to write fluently in Russian. The final section is on oral communication in Russian. This section tests the candidate's ability to effectively communicate in Russian in unusual circumstances.