Methodological techniques for working with superstitions and omens in Russian as a foreign language classes at the pre-university training stage (B1 level)

The purpose of the study is to demonstrate the possibilities of integrating superstitions and omens as an effective means of teaching Russian as a foreign language (RFL) into the educational process through specially developed methodological techniques aimed at fostering the sociocultural and intercultural competence of students within the pre-university training system (language proficiency level – B1). The article substantiates the educational and developmental functions of cultural elements, identifies the characteristics of linguistic units that are relevant for communicative practice, outlines criteria for selecting folk beliefs for their appropriate inclusion in the learning process, and presents and analyzes the results of specific educational tasks. The scientific novelty of this research lies in the fact that, for the first time, superstitions and omens are employed within a traditional RFL curriculum, rather than as part of a specialized course aimed at introducing learners to fragments of Russian folk culture. In conclusion, the study highlights the polyfunctionality and multidimensionality of superstitions and omens as a didactic tool that facilitates the development of intercultural competence within the RFL course.