Examine maps of Russia throughout history. Get students to appreciate the problems ruling a large country would bring, particularly without modern transportation and communication. Consider the potential for Russian history to be influenced by both Europe and Asia. Look at the number of different races that have been under Russian rule at various times. Make a list of potential problems a Russian ruler would face.
Draw a time line and mark on it the major events in Russian history. This will help to give students an overview. Assign an event to each member of the class. Get each student to research an event and present findings to the class.
Choose some important events or personalities to look at in more depth as a whole class. For example, you might choose to spend more time learning about Peter the Great or communism in Russia. Present the students with historical sources on this area and challenge them to make a documentary-style TV show on this topic.
Draw out a table with two columns. Label one column "changes" and the other "continuities." Students have to complete the table by listing things that changed or stayed the same throughout Russian history. Challenge students to explain why these changes and continuities occurred.
Sit the class in a circle; get each student to tell part of the "story" of the history of Russia. When one student has covered a significant amount, the next student continues the story. This enables you to check class understanding.