DEVELOPING CRITICAL THINKING IN FRENCH CLASSES

Abstract

This article examines how critical thinking can be developed in French language lessons. The relevance of this study stems from two main factors. Firstly, the rapid development of digital technologies has highlighted the problem of students’ insufficient critical thinking skills. Secondly, many teachers want to expand their knowledge of effective methods and techniques for developing this skill, and how to apply them in practice, particularly in the context of teaching foreign languages. This article aims to analyse contemporary methods and techniques for developing critical thinking skills in foreign language classes, and to propose practical applications in French language teaching. The research methods include a review and systematisation of the academic literature on the issue in question, an analysis and synthesis of the results obtained, a definitional analysis of key research terms, a descriptive methodological analysis of exercises for developing critical thinking, and a predictive method. It is noted that foreign language lessons are ideally suited to developing critical thinking skills, and can significantly improve overall learning outcomes and develop general thinking and communication abilities, laying the foundations for future professional activity and personal development. Developing critical thinking is a long-term process requiring a systematic methodological framework. The article provides examples of using several methodological techniques to develop critical thinking in French classes, including “Name, Describe, Act”, “Six Thinking Hats”, “Cubing”, “RAFT Strategy”, “Projecting Across Time”, “Beginning, Middle, End”, “Same, Different, Connect, Engage”, “PRESS Method”, “SWOT Analysis”, and “I Used to Think… Now I Think…”. Further research could focus on developing a system of exercises and tasks designed to foster critical thinking while taking into account learners’ language proficiency levels and the four language skills. Another promising direction for future research is the experimental evaluation of the effectiveness of the proposed methods and techniques in teaching French.