DEVELOPING STUDENTS’ CRITICAL THINKING THROUGH ENGLISH LESSONS

Аннотация

Critical thinking is an essential competence in contemporary education, enabling students to analyses information, evaluate evidence, identify assumptions, solve problems, and formulate reasoned conclusions. In foreign language education, English lessons provide valuable opportunities to develop these abilities because language learning involves interpreting meaning, comparing perspectives, discussing complex issues, and expressing arguments clearly. This article examines the role of English language teaching in developing students’ critical thinking skills. It analyses the relationship between language proficiency and higher-order thinking, considers practical classroom strategies, and explores the role of teachers in creating an environment that encourages independent reasoning. Particular attention is given to problem-based learning, discussion, debate, critical reading, project work, and the responsible use of digital resources. The article argues that critical thinking can be integrated into regular English lessons without separating it from language objectives. When learners are encouraged to question information, support opinions with evidence, and reflect on alternative viewpoints, English becomes not only a subject of study but also a tool for intellectual development. The article concludes that systematic integration of critical-thinking activities can contribute to students’ communicative competence, learner autonomy, academic achievement, and preparation for professional life.