Preface -- This Russian text attempts to combine the advantages of the traditional grammatical approach to the study of a foreign language with certain features of the modern conversational, inductive method. Basic to this combined approach is the use of a great number and variety of pattern sentences: short, typical Russian sentences which can be used in different ways to provide concentrated and appropriate material for language analysis, reading, and drill. In addition to pattern sentences, all units have been provided with dialogues or readings, often with both. A great variety of drill materials has also been supplied. Thus the book can be used as a first-year textbook which is complete in itself, and does not require either a reader or a workbook to accompany it.