ABSTRACT
Task-based peer interaction is an important element in many communicative and TBLT classrooms. Research has shown that peer interaction can benefit second language development and is often viewed as less stressful than teacher-student interaction. Therefore, task-based peer interaction can be a valuable addition to Russian classes. This chapter includes a discussion of prior peer interaction research and how some of the learners’ individual differences may affect the effectiveness of communicative tasks. Drawing upon the author’s experiences teaching and researching Russian as a foreign language in various environments, the chapter concludes with the description of peer interactive activities that Russian instructors may adopt in their classes. The activities are aimed for use in Russian classes in immersion programs, K–12 settings, and at a university level.
