A series of Russian textbooks have caused a stir because of a language learning exercise, an example of which can be found below.<\/p>\n
A\u00a0policeman says in\u00a0Russian: “I work a\u00a0lot, sometimes even too much. \u2026 Winter or summer, rain or shine, I go from\u00a0a bank to\u00a0a store, from\u00a0a store to\u00a0a restaurant, from\u00a0a restaurant to\u00a0a market, looking for\u00a0where to\u00a0take money.”<\/p><\/blockquote>\n
The idea of the textbooks is for students to spot the mistake within the sentence, but a United Russia lawmaker believes that the texts could tarnish Russia’s image abroad. As well as corrupt policemen taking money, another passage features a drug taking professor who complains that ‘stupid girl students don’t come’ to his lectures. The authors of the textbooks are said to be astounded at the controversy as the first edition of the book was published a decade ago and the books are clearly labelled for adult learning.\u00a0The issue has polarised opinion with some finding the texts a humorous and refreshing change from many Russian language textbooks still in print from the Soviet era, whereas others believe language textbooks should take a more serious, academic approach. Do you mind a little humour with your language learning?<\/p>\n