13CRITICAL THINKING: THE KEY SKILL IN LEARNING ENGLISH
Khurliman Allamuratova
PhD student, National University of Uzbekistan
ABSTRACT
This article explores the role of critical thinking in the process of learning the English language. Critical thinking is an essential skill that enables learners to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information, fostering a deeper understanding of the language. The article examines how critical thinking contributes to improving reading skills, developing effective communication, enhancing problem-solving abilities, and promoting cultural understanding. Additionally, strategies and methods are proposed to cultivate critical thinking in the context of learning English. This article is intended for educators and students who aim to improve their English language skills and develop critical thinking during the learning process.
Keywords: critical thinking, learning English, reading skills, effective communication, problem-solving, cultural understanding, strategies, methods, educators, pupils.
АННОТАЦИЯ
Эта статья исследует роль критического мышления в процессе изучения английского языка. Критическое мышление является неотъемлемым навыком, который позволяет учащимся анализировать, оценивать и синтезировать информацию, развивая более глубокое понимание языка. В статье рассматривается, как критическое мышление способствует улучшению навыков чтения, развитию эффективной коммуникации, совершенствованию навыков решения проблем и культурному пониманию. Также предлагаются стратегии и методы, которые помогают развивать критическое мышление в контексте изучения английского языка. Эта статья направлена на педагогов и учащихся, которые стремятся улучшить свои навыки английского языка и развить критическое мышление в процессе обучения.
Ключевые слова: критическое мышление, изучение английского языка, навыки чтения, эффективная коммуникация, решение проблем, культурное понимание, стратегии, методы, педагоги, учащиеся.
ANOTATSIYA
Maqolada ingliz tilini o'rganish jarayonida tanqidiy fikrlashning ahamiyati o'rganiladi. Tanqidiy fikrlash, o'quvchilarga ma'lumotlarni tahlil qilish, baholash va sintez qilish imkonini beradi va tilni chuqurroq tushunishini rivojlantiradi. Maqolada, tanqidiy fikrlash qanday qilib o'quvchilarda o'qish qobiliyatini yaxshilash, samarali kommunikatsiya rivojlanishtirish, muammolarni yechish qobiliyatini oshirish va madaniy tushunchani oshirishga yordam berishi ko'rsatiladi. Shuningdek, ingliz tilini o'rganish kontekstida tanqidiy fikrlashni rivojlantirishga yordam beradigan strategiyalar va usullar taklif etiladi.
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Ushbu maqola ingliz tilini o'rganish va o'quv jarayonida tanqidiy fikrlashni rivojlantirishni hohlagan o'qituvchilar va o'quvchilar uchun mo'ljallangan.
Kalit so'zlar : tanqidiy fikrlash, ingliz tilini o'rganish, o'qish ko'nikmalari, samarali kommunikatsiya, muammo yechish, madaniy tushuncha, strategiyalar, usullar, o'qituvchilar, o'quvchilar.
In the modern educational context, learning English has long ceased to be just about mastering grammar and vocabulary. Today, much more is required - the development of critical thinking becomes a key skill in English language learning. Critical thinking is the ability to analyze, evaluate, and synthesize information based on logic and reasoning. It allows learners to not only understand the language at a surface level but also delve deeper into its semantic features, context, and cultural aspects. The aim of this article is to explore the role of critical thinking in the process of learning English. We will examine the importance of developing this skill for students and educators, as well as discuss how critical thinking contributes to improving reading skills, developing effective communication, enhancing problem-solving skills, and fostering cultural understanding. It is important to note that critical thinking is not an innate skill but rather one that can be developed and refined. In the article, we will propose various strategies and methods that can help students and educators foster critical thinking in the context of learning English. These strategies include text analysis, critical reading, discussion and debates, as well as the use of diverse materials and resources to promote critical thinking. Moreover, critical thinking promotes cultural understanding. Learning the English language is inseparable from studying the culture and customs of English-speaking countries. Critical thinking helps students become aware of and analyze cultural differences, stereotypes, and biases, reflecting on their own cultural preferences. It enables students to develop openness and tolerance towards other cultures and the ability to adapt and interact with representatives of different cultures. In this article, we propose exploring various strategies and methods that can help develop critical thinking in the process of learning the English language. We will discuss the use of authentic materials, such as authentic texts, videos, and audio recordings, which foster critical thinking through the analysis and interpretation of reallife situations. We will also examine the role of discussions, debates, and collaborative work in developing students' critical thinking. [1] Additionally, we will provide various reading strategies that can help students develop critical reading and comprehension skills in the English language. It is important to note that the development of critical thinking is a process that requires time, effort, and consistent practice. Educators play a crucial role in creating a stimulating learning environment where students can actively apply their critical thinking skills. They should encourage students to ask questions, express their opinions, substantiate their claims, and seek alternative solutions. They can
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also employ various assessment methods, such as open-ended assignments, project work, and debates, to assess students' level of critical thinking development. Educators should actively incorporate the development of critical thinking into their lessons and assignments to help students achieve a higher level of proficiency in the English language. This may include using critical readings, text analysis tasks, discussions and debates, as well as stimulating independent thinking and expression of their own thoughts and opinions. Developing critical thinking in learning the English language helps students become more independent and creative in language use, as well as develops their overall critical thinking skills. Critical thinking plays an important role in developing writing skills in English.[2] Here are some ways in which critical thinking contributes to the development of these skills:
Text analysis: Critical thinking allows students to analyze texts in English in terms of content, structure, and style. They can identify key ideas, arguments, and evidence, identify logical connections, and evaluate the quality of information. This analysis helps students develop their analytical skills and their ability to express their thoughts in written form.
Critical reading: Critical thinking in writing begins with critical reading. Students who can think critically can actively analyze and evaluate the material they read in English. They can identify key ideas, assess the credibility and relevance of information, and determine the author's approach and point of view. These skills help students become better-informed writers and develop their ability to write critically about the material they analyze.
Critical thinking and argumentation: Critical thinking contributes to the development of argumentation skills in written form. Students who can think critically can analyze different points of view and build their arguments based on logical reasoning and evidence. They can express their thoughts clearly and persuasively, using language tools to support their arguments. Critical thinking helps students develop their ability to write argumentative essays, reviews, text analyses, and other forms of written work.
Evaluation and editing: Critical thinking also includes the ability to evaluate and edit one's own written work. Students who can think critically can analyze their English texts, identify weaknesses, errors, and inconsistencies, and make necessary corrections and improvements. They can use critical thinking to enhance the quality of their written work and develop their editing skills. Overall, critical thinking plays an important role in developing writing skills in English, such as text analysis, critical reading, argumentation, and self-assessment. Developing critical thinking helps students become more effective and confident writers in English, capable of expressing their thoughts clearly, logically, and persuasively. To develop critical thinking in writing in English, it is helpful to engage in exercises that involve text analysis, discussions, and debates, as
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well as provide students with opportunities to write essays, reviews, and analyze different types of texts.
Critical thinking contributes to the development of writing skills in the English language:
• Analysis and interpretation: Critical thinking enables students to analyze and interpret information effectively. When writing in English, students with strong critical thinking skills can analyze complex texts, identify key ideas, and extract relevant information. They can then organize and present this information in a coherent and logical manner in their writing.
• Clarity and coherence: Critical thinking helps students develop clarity and coherence in their writing. They can critically evaluate their ideas, identify gaps in their arguments, and make necessary revisions to ensure their writing is clear and logical. Additionally, critical thinking allows students to organize their thoughts and ideas in a structured manner, improving the overall coherence of their writing.
• Evaluation and argumentation: Critical thinking involves evaluating and assessing information from multiple perspectives. This skill is crucial for effective argumentation in writing. Students with strong critical thinking skills can critically analyze different viewpoints, evaluate evidence, and construct well-supported arguments in their writing. They can also anticipate counterarguments and address them effectively.
• Evidence and support: Critical thinking helps students evaluate and select appropriate evidence to support their claims in writing. They can assess the credibility and reliability of sources, identify relevant evidence, and integrate it seamlessly into their writing. This helps strengthen their arguments and adds credibility to their work.
• Problem-solving and creativity: Critical thinking encourages students to approach writing as a problem-solving process. They can identify writing challenges, brainstorm alternative solutions, and think creatively to overcome obstacles. Critical thinking also allows students to generate innovative ideas and perspectives, enhancing the originality and creativity of their writing.
Revision and self-reflection: Critical thinking promotes a reflective approach to writing. Students can critically evaluate their own writing, identifying areas for improvement and making necessary revisions. They can assess the effectiveness of their language use, organization, and argumentation, enhancing the overall quality of their written work. [3]
Audience awareness: Critical thinking helps students develop an awareness of their audience when writing in English. They can critically analyze the needs, expectations, and background knowledge of their readers. This enables them to tailor their writing style, language use, and content to effectively communicate with their intended audience.
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• To foster the development of critical thinking in writing skills in English, educators can incorporate the following strategies:
• Provide opportunities for students to engage in analysis and interpretation of various texts, including articles, essays, and literature.
• Encourage students to ask critical questions about the content they read and to evaluate the author's arguments and evidence.
• Assign writing tasks that require students to construct arguments, support claims with evidence, and address potential counterarguments.
• Teach students to revise their writing critically, focusing on clarity, coherence, and the strength of their arguments.
• Provide feedback and guidance that encourages students to think critically about their writing and offers suggestions for improvement. [3]
By integrating critical thinking into English writing instruction, students can develop strong analytical and evaluative skills, enhance their ability to express ideas effectively, and produce high-quality written work in the English language.
REFERENCES
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2. З. Б. А^рарова (2021). УЗЛУКСИЗ ТАЪЛИМДА ПЕДАГОГИК ТЕХНОЛОГИЯЛАРНИ К;УЛЛАШ ЖАРАЁНЛАРИ. Academic research in educational sciences, 2 (NUU Conference 1), 190-194.
3. Фархад Айтмуратович Бабашев (2023). УЗБЕКИСТОН ТАЪЛИМ ТИЗИМИГА МЕДИАТАЪЛИМНИ ЖОРИЙ ЭТИШ МАСАЛАЛАРИ. Academic research in educational sciences, 5 (NUU Conference 2), 216-220.
4. Brookfield, S. (2012). Teaching for Critical Thinking: Tools and Techniques to Help Students Question Their Assumptions. Jossey-Bass.
5. Ennis, R. H. (1989). Critical Thinking and Subject Specificity: Clarification and Needed Research. Educational Researcher, 18(3), 4-10.
6. Fisher, A., Scriven, M., & Critical Thinking National Council. (1997). Critical Thinking: Its Definition and Assessment. Facione.
7. У. Ж. Содицов (2021). ЯНГИ УЗБЕКИСТОН ШАРОИТИДА ПЕДАГОГИКА ФАНИНИНГ ТАРА^ИЁТИ ВА ИННОВАЦИЯЛАР. Academic research in educational sciences, 2 (NUU Conference 1), 41-47.
8. Садикова, Ш. О. (2022). ПЕДАГОГИК АМАЛИЁТ-ПЕДАГОГИК ФАОЛИЯТГА ТАЙЁРЛАШНИНГ МУХИМ ШАКЛИ. International Academic Research Journal Impact Factor, 7(1), 1.
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