Russian for Real Life, Exams & Stage — from nursery rhymes to Oxxxymiron and Akhmatova
est. 2012
Anna Volkova’s School
Narritorika
My students pass their exams and reach their goals — and so will you.
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Preserve Russian Abroad
Through books, podcasts, YouTube, and adapted lessons in literature for bilinguals.
I can help
Gently and effectively, for both neurotypical children and kids with developmental differences.
Improve Grades & Build a Solid Knowledge Base
if it’s important (not only) to learn Russian
Mindful reading, a humane approach, and tools of psychological growth help develop critical thinking and cope with complex emotions.
Support Through Adolescence
No pressure — through reflection and favorite formats: from blogs and comics to serious works.
Inspire a Love for Reading
HSE Lyceum, Bauman Lyceum № 1580, Primakov Gymnasium, "Letovo," Kurchatov School, Gymnasium № 1533 "LIT," MSU Gymnasium, and more.
Enter Top Russian Schools
For a blog, podcast, media outlet, or YouTube channel — to express yourself and your mission.
Create a Content Strategy
For clear, confident, and convincing communication of ideas.
Prepare for a Pitch or Public Speaking
No matter how much time is left before the test, my method improves current performance.
Achieve the Best Results on Exams
Educator, Mentor & Storytelling Strategist
About Me
- Keep the language alive: I support multilingual families who want their kids to grow up fluent and connected to their roots.
- Build confidence: I coach students and professionals to speak clearly, persuasively, and with impact — whether it’s a public talk, a pitch, or an everyday conversation.
- Shape authentic narratives: I work with experts and entrepreneurs to define their values, craft their personal brand, and share their mission through blogs, podcasts, and media.
- Grow critical thinking & resilience: My approach helps students handle complex emotions, think deeper, and unlock their full potential.
- Create lasting change: My unique blend of teaching and communication strategy earned me a U.S. O-1 talent visa. Today I live in California and continue to teach, mentor, and design educational projects for an international audience.
What I Do:
I’m Anna Volkova — for over a decade I’ve been helping people across the world, from teenagers to seasoned professionals, use language as a tool to understand themselves, connect with others, and tell their stories with confidence.
300+
learners worldwide
years of teaching experience
10+
hours of professional supervision & practice
780
30%
stay for ongoing mentorship
4,98/5
student rating
An Individual Approach That Unlocks Every Student’s Potential
How I Teach
With my method, students master what once seemed too difficult or overwhelming. The idea is simple: the entire curriculum is broken into clear, connected blocks, and each block is divided into smaller themes. Every topic is presented as a carefully designed sequence of theory and practice.
This structure helps students gain a full understanding of the material — not only to succeed on exams, but also to deeply grasp the logic of language itself.
This structure helps students gain a full understanding of the material — not only to succeed on exams, but also to deeply grasp the logic of language itself.
I build a strong foundation with a "from simple to complex" approach
I build a solid foundation step by step — moving from simple to complex with confidence
Yes, in any educational system knowledge and skills are important — but every child develops their own way. My task is to help students explore the world through their interests and to create learning experiences that don’t take away childhood or kill curiosity.
When working with bilinguals, I build on the child’s dominant language and use analogies to make understanding easier. I nurture engagement, curiosity, and interest — encouraging questions and open discussion.
When working with bilinguals, I build on the child’s dominant language and use analogies to make understanding easier. I nurture engagement, curiosity, and interest — encouraging questions and open discussion.
I believe in the uniqueness of every student
I believe in the uniqueness and potential of every student
Some students come with ADHD, dyslexia, or other learning differences. I don’t see these as obstacles — only as part of who they are. With patience and structure, we build confidence step by step.
Every learner is unique
I welcome all learners, including kids with ADHD, dyslexia, or other learning differences
I treat my students as equals — without authoritarianism or pressure. I believe a teacher is not a controller, but a co-explorer of knowledge. In class, I intentionally create conditions that help students:
- learn to listen and understand themselves and others,
- articulate and defend their positions,
- negotiate and take responsibility,
- develop resilience and flexibility,
- and overcome the fear of making mistakes.
I follow the principles of human-centered pedagogy (inspired by Zitzer, Petranovskaya, and Amonashvili)
I follow the principles of human-centered pedagogy, focusing on respect, empathy, and growth
From cartoons to classics, from rap lyrics to Tolstoy
I create personalized learning paths based on what inspires each student — whether it’s music, games, or stories. Russian becomes more engaging when it connects to their world.
I show the many sides of language — from children’s shows to Tolstoy and hip-hop lyrics
I teach Russian through language, reading, storytelling, public speaking, and blogging
I teach Russian through stories, reading, and self-expression.My approach blends language with teen coaching and emotional support.
Often, Russian becomes a tool for reflection and big-picture thinking — so we discuss history, culture, art, sports, and share life lessons while learning.
Often, Russian becomes a tool for reflection and big-picture thinking — so we discuss history, culture, art, sports, and share life lessons while learning.
I teach Russian through language, reading, storytelling, public speaking, and blogging
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Choose what works for you: group sessions or a fully tailored strategy
Plans & Pricing
- Build confidence in speaking
- Practice through games and role-play
- Stay motivated with group energy
- Connect with friends worldwide
- Grow through collaborative discussions
Learn with peers at your level:
Mini-Group
- 100% teacher’s attention
- Clear, structured progress
- Faster results with a tailored plan
Get personalized guidance designed just for you:
Private Coaching
- In-depth analysis of personality type, strengths and weaknesses
- Psychological and coaching tools for self-esteem, motivation, anxiety, and emotional intelligence
from $300
4 sessions per month
Personal Strategy for Self-Realization
- A personalized step-by-step plan
- Develop skills for confident speaking and conflict resolution strategies
from $200
4 sessions per month
- Exercises to strengthen collaboration and teamwork
Effective Communication: Self-Presentation, Argumentation & Persuasion
Custom Pricing
- Public speaking and networking techniques
- Cross-cultural communication
Custom Pricing
Meet the Team
Our Team
Anna Volkova
Founder, Educator & Educational Consultant. Designing methodology and guiding student growth
Natalia Soina
Elena Chemakina
Elementary and Middle School Tutor. Supporting early learners with patience and care
Russian Language & Literature Teacher. Bringing texts and culture to life
Maria Pantus
Psychotherapist. Supporting students' and families' emotional well-being
Natia Kuchukhidze
Educational Project Producer. Coordinating programs and student experience
Roman Firsov
Design & Technical Support. Combining design aesthetics with educational effectiveness.
Anya Varakina
Tutor & Narrative Practitioner. Helping students explore their voice and personal stories through narrative practices
Lada Koval
Supervisor. Ensuring the quality and integrity of our teaching approach
Conversations about education, methodology, and cross-cultural learning
Press & Interviews
Switching to PR from Another Field: Real People’s Stories
From Classics to the Stage: How Russian Shapes Public Speaking
How to Expand Your Vocabulary: Best Methods from Linguists and Educators
Anna Volkova: "Language as a Tool for Solving Practical Challenges"
"Bez" or "Bes"? Prefix or Preposition: How to Get It Right
Students Who Reached Their Goals
Success Stories
Nadezhda (Vanya’s mom)
"In just one month, Anna helped my son master essay writing — something he couldn’t figure out for two years. Thanks to her, he scored a perfect 100/100 on the exam and was accepted into university. Anna truly knows how to unlock a student’s potential."
Dasha (multilingual student)
"Three teachers gave up on me before Anna. With her, I became more focused, thoughtful, and motivated. She helped me discover books I truly enjoy — and even more importantly, she showed me what it means to have a teacher who understands and supports you."
Katya (9th grade student)
"Before Anna, I never scored higher than a C in Russian. In just two months, she helped me master even the hardest topics — and I passed my exam with the top grade. For the first time, studying with a tutor was a joy."
Victoria (Vlad’s mom)
"In just three months, Anna prepared my son for one of the toughest Russian exams at his school. He scored 43/50 — the highest in his group. Anna’s structured approach and targeted preparation made all the difference."
Natalia (Volodya’s mom)
"Anna prepared my son for admission to School 1580 and the national exam — he got the top grade and was accepted. Her mix of digital notes and clear explanations made even complex topics easy to understand, and in just months she helped him build a solid foundation of seven years of material."
Maria (Marina’s mom)
"Anna made online lessons clear and engaging for my daughter, and also gave us valuable tips on learning strategies. She is focused, energetic, and truly professional."
Aleksei & Svetlana
"We are sincerely grateful to Anna for her skillful and thoughtful work with children, for her patience and sensitivity, and for her heartfelt dedication to teaching. She shows care and attention to every student. We are very pleased with the results and look forward to continuing our collaboration with joy."
Maria
"Anna is a wonderful tutor: positive, knowledgeable, and able to spark genuine interest. She treats children with respect and finds a unique approach for each one. My son enjoyed his Russian lessons and homework, and he did very well on his entrance test for 5th grade. Only positive impressions — thank you!"
Stasya
"Anna worked with my daughter as she prepared for her final exams, and the results were very effective. Anna always tries to spark interest and explain not only the rule but also why it exists — something teachers rarely do. Sometimes she even shows Russian through the lens of other languages, which makes lessons much more engaging. I myself enjoyed sitting in on her classes."
Everything You Need to Know Before Starting Lessons
Questions
I teach online in the format of interactive sessions using a digital whiteboard where we draw, write, post pictures, videos, and books, and create mind maps. Alongside my voice, I keep synchronous notes that gradually turn into a personalized, structured "book" for the student — clear, practical, and easy to use. This approach saves significant time on handwriting (unless developing it is the goal) and makes lessons more effective for both auditory and visual learners
Yes, if you live in California — within the Los Angeles to San Diego area. In this case, travel expenses are added to the lesson cost and calculated based on your location.
Homework is part of the process. Technically it’s possible without it, but then part of the lesson will be spent on practice. Without independent work it’s impossible to fully consolidate knowledge and ensure no aspect of preparation is overlooked.
The program is flexible. Everything depends on the situation, request, student motivation, and the trust we build together. Some students need only a few weeks to meet their goals, others — several years. Based on my experience, progress is visible within the first month, with the most significant results achieved within 3−4 months.
Before starting, I assess the student’s current level, identify focus areas, and create a kanban board — a visual system that allows real-time tracking of progress. Both parents and students can access it anytime.
Because in a few months of focused work I achieve results other specialists often can’t reach in years. I continuously learn and apply practices from different educational and psychotherapeutic approaches. Careful time management allows me to stay fully engaged in each student’s progress and craft unique educational solutions.
Payments can be made to Russian or international bank accounts. Payment is made at the beginning of each month for several lessons in advance.
Each lesson lasts 55 minutes, unless a different length is agreed upon individually.
A stable high-speed internet connection and a camera. All other materials — e-textbooks, workbooks, and books — are provided by me. If desired (and if you have a printer), materials can be printed for notes. For courses that include written work, a notebook and a pen will be necessary.
Yes. If a student regularly attends lessons, completes homework and follows recommendations, I guarantee reaching the set goals — or I will refund the money.
Once a student improves grades, passes exams, or enters their chosen school, we can pause or conclude lessons, or set new goals: for example, building storytelling and public speaking skills, or learning to read and think critically. About one-third of my language students later continue with me in a personal mentorship format.
It’s a format where I temporarily become a senior guide and help young adults (ages 13−20) navigate complex periods, unlock their potential, build confidence, and better understand themselves and the world. In these sessions, we develop soft skills, broaden horizons, learn to manage emotions, and explore life through books, art, history, and culture.
I am currently working on installment payment options, as well as developing unique programs for children, parents, and colleagues. Every year, I also allocate a few free mentorship spots for talented children from orphanages and for students with disabilities who are motivated to enter strong schools and universities.
If an individual lesson is canceled less than 24 hours in advance, the fee is non-refundable. Group lessons cannot be rescheduled — missed sessions are forfeited.
I teach online in the format of interactive sessions using a digital whiteboard where we draw, write, post pictures, videos, and books, and create mind maps. Alongside my voice, I keep synchronous notes that gradually turn into a personalized, structured "book" for the student — clear, practical, and easy to use. This approach saves significant time on handwriting (unless developing it is the goal) and makes lessons more effective for both auditory and visual learners.
Each lesson lasts 55 minutes, unless a different length is agreed upon individually.
Yes, if you live in California — within the Los Angeles to San Diego area. In this case, travel expenses are added to the lesson cost and calculated based on your location.
A stable high-speed internet connection and a camera. All other materials — e-textbooks, workbooks, and books — are provided by me. If desired (and if you have a printer), materials can be printed for notes. For courses that include written work, a notebook and a pen will be necessary.
Homework is part of the process. Technically it’s possible without it, but then part of the lesson will be spent on practice. Without independent work it’s impossible to fully consolidate knowledge and ensure no aspect of preparation is overlooked.
Yes. If a student regularly attends lessons, completes homework and follows recommendations, I guarantee reaching the set goals — or I will refund the money.
The program is flexible. Everything depends on the situation, request, student motivation, and the trust we build together. Some students need only a few weeks to meet their goals, others — several years. Based on my experience, progress is visible within the first month, with the most significant results achieved within 3−4 months.
Once a student improves grades, passes exams, or enters their chosen school, we can pause or conclude lessons, or set new goals: for example, building storytelling and public speaking skills, or learning to read and think critically. About one-third of my language students later continue with me in a personal mentorship format.
Before starting, I assess the student’s current level, identify focus areas, and create a kanban board — a visual system that allows real-time tracking of progress. Both parents and students can access it anytime.
It’s a format where I temporarily become a senior guide and help young adults (ages 13−20) navigate complex periods, unlock their potential, build confidence, and better understand themselves and the world. In these sessions, we develop soft skills, broaden horizons, learn to manage emotions, and explore life through books, art, history, and culture.
Because in a few months of focused work I achieve results other specialists often can’t reach in years. I continuously learn and apply practices from different educational and psychotherapeutic approaches. Careful time management allows me to stay fully engaged in each student’s progress and craft unique educational solutions
I am currently working on installment payment options, as well as developing unique programs for children, parents, and colleagues. Every year, I also allocate a few free mentorship spots for talented children from orphanages and for students with disabilities who are motivated to enter strong schools and universities.
Payments can be made to Russian or international bank accounts. Payment is made at the beginning of each month for several lessons in advance
If an individual lesson is canceled less than 24 hours in advance, the fee is non-refundable. Group lessons cannot be rescheduled — missed sessions are forfeited.
Narritorika
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est. 2012
Anna Volkova’s School
Narritorika