Dialogue 2. 53. Katya, can you tell me more about the way the University program works?

53. Katya, can you tell me more about the way the University program works? How many years do you study?

54. Unlike the U.S. colleges, most Russian higher education institutions have five-year courses of study. The FESTU is no exception.

55. Does the academic year begin in fall or spring?

56. It starts in September and ends in June. The academic year is divided into two semesters; after each one the students have exams.

57. Do the students have any kind of research projects?

58. Yes, they do. Besides they write a thesis during their fifth year.

Exercise 9. Reports and projects.

a) What do you think is the most important problem facing the education system in Russia at the present time? Prepare a report.

b) Find out about the latest innovations in the system of education in Russia. Discuss in the group.

c) How do you explain the fact that university education is more important today than at any other stage in our history? Write a composition.

d) Visit your University museum to find out about:

1. the history of University;

2. the organizational structure of your University;

3. students’ social life.

Report to the group.

e) Make a list of advantages and disadvantages of being a student, then write a short composition stating your reasons.

f) Compare and contrast University and school education (University and school life).