Svetlana Frolenko
About
I’ve been teaching Russian with a passion for its language and culture. I taught at Indiana University’s Summer Language Workshop (2024, 2025), helping adult learners boost their Russian skills and dive into the culture through the Russian Flagship Program. I also volunteered as a tutor at the University of South Carolina (2023), leading Russian language tables that sparked lively cross-cultural chats. In 2021, I taught migrant kids in Moscow remotely, creating fun, personalized lessons to help them feel at home with the language. I’m currently pursuing a PhD at Irkutsk Scientific Center, studying how to teach Russian as a foreign language, with a focus on modern tech and pedagogy.
Teaching Style
My teaching style is all about making Russian fun, approachable, and deeply connected to its vibrant culture. I tailor every lesson to your goals—whether you’re mastering basic phrases for a trip or diving into complex grammar for fluency. Expect a mix of conversational practice, grammar made simple, and cultural gems like snippets from Tarkovsky’s films, Brodsky’s poetry, or a Russian song. I create a relaxed, mistake-friendly space where we laugh at the occasional tongue-twister and learn together. Drawing from my experience with diverse learners, I use interactive methods and modern tools to keep things engaging.
Curriculum
My teaching method is all about making Russian accessible and fun, blending language learning with a deep dive into Russian culture. I customize lessons to fit your goals, whether you’re starting with the alphabet or aiming to chat like a native. My approach mixes conversational practice, clear grammar explanations, and interactive activities.
Credentials & Affiliations
I’m currently pursuing a PhD in Education at Irkutsk Scientific Center, specializing in teaching Russian as a foreign language, with a focus on pedagogy, psychology, and modern tech to make lessons engaging. I also hold a Master of Arts in Theatre from the East Siberian State Academy of Culture and Arts (2000–2005), where I studied art directing, acting, and stage movement, alongside pedagogy and art history—skills that add a creative spark to my teaching. My teaching experience includes tutoring at Indiana University’s Summer Language Workshop (2024, 2025) with the Russian Flagship Program, volunteering as a Russian tutor at the University of South Carolina (2023), and teaching migrant kids in Moscow (2021). I’m passionate about helping students speak Russian and connect with its culture.