METHODS FOR DEVELOPING ORAL AND WRITTEN SPEECH AT THE B2 LEVEL IN THE CONTEXT OF FOREIGN LANGUAGE LESSONS

МЕТОДЫ РАЗВИТИЯ УСТНОЙ И ПИСЬМЕННОЙ РЕЧИ НА УРОВНЕ B2 В КОНТЕКСТЕ УРОКА ИНОСТРАННОГО ЯЗЫКА

Сайлауова Нұрай Ерболатқызы

магистрант, кафедра иностранных языков и переводческого дела, Восточно-Казахстанский университет им. С. Аманжолова,

Республика Казахстан, г. Усть-Каменогорск

Аккалиева Айжан Файзрахмановна

научный руководитель, д-р PhD, сеньор лектор кафедры иностранных языков и переводческого дела, Восточно-Казахстанский университет им. С. Аманжолова,

Республика Казахстан, г. Усть-Каменогорск

ABSTRACT

This article explores effective methods for enhancing oral and written speech skills among B2-level students in foreign language classrooms at schools. It discusses the integration of communicative approaches, task-based learning, and the use of digital tools to foster language acquisition. The study underscores the importance of aligning methods with students’ cognitive and linguistic development to promote fluency and accuracy.

АННОТАЦИЯ

В данной статье рассматриваются эффективные методы развития устных и письменных навыков речи у школьников уровня B2 на уроках иностранного языка. В ней анализируется интеграция коммуникативных подходов, обучения на основе заданий, а также использование цифровых инструментов для укрепления языковых умений. Исследование подчеркивает необходимость соотнесения методик с когнитивным и языковым развитием учеников для повышения беглости и точности в речи.

Keywords: B2 level, speaking skills, writing skills, foreign language teaching, communicative competence, task-based learning, digital tools.

Ключевые слова: уровень B2, навыки говорения, навыки письма, обучение иностранным языкам, коммуникативная компетентность, обучение на основе заданий, цифровые инструменты.

In today's globalized world, mastering a foreign language at an advanced level is essential for both personal and professional development. The B2 level of the Common European Framework of Reference for Languages (CEFR) represents a key milestone where learners achieve the ability to interact fluently and effectively in diverse situations. However, developing both oral and written communication skills at this level requires a thoughtful and multifaceted approach. This article delves into the most effective strategies educators can employ to help students achieve communicative competence, with a particular focus on task-based learning, digital tools, and integrated skill development.

Developing advanced speaking and writing skills is a critical goal in foreign language instruction, particularly at the B2 level. At this stage, learners are expected to communicate fluently and spontaneously in a variety of contexts while maintaining grammatical and lexical accuracy. However, achieving this balance remains a challenge for educators. This study investigates effective methods for enhancing these skills within the framework of foreign language lessons.

Oral Proficiency

Studies on oral proficiency emphasize the importance of communicative activities that simulate real-life interactions. Ellis (2003) highlights that task-based learning (TBL) provides learners with opportunities to use language meaningfully, promoting both fluency and accuracy. Thornbury (2005) underscores the role of scaffolding in developing speaking skills, suggesting that structured support gradually leads to independent performance.

Collaborative learning fosters deeper understanding and improves both speaking and writing skills. Group projects and peer review sessions encourage students to interact, provide feedback, and learn from each other. Brown and Larson-Hall (2012) suggest that collaboration fosters a sense of community and enhances motivation among learners.

To advance speaking skills at the B2 level, educators should emphasize real-life communicative scenarios aligned with students' interests and goals. Role-plays, debates, and problem-solving tasks simulate authentic interactions and encourage the use of functional language. Harmer (2007) recommends incorporating improvisation into lessons to reduce anxiety and foster creativity, helping learners respond spontaneously in dynamic situations. Feedback sessions where students analyze their performance using recorded tasks enhance self-awareness and promote metacognitive strategies.

Pronunciation and intonation should also be integrated into speaking practice. Shadowing exercises, where students repeat after a native speaker or an advanced recording, improve articulation and rhythm. Tools like Forvo and YouGlish allow learners to hear native pronunciations in various contexts, helping them internalize natural speech patterns.

Writing Skills

Writing at the B2 level requires a focus on both process and product. Hyland (2003) argues that process-oriented writing, which involves drafting, peer feedback, and revision, fosters critical thinking and improves textual coherence. Ferris and Hedgcock (2005) emphasize the importance of genre-based instruction, which helps learners understand the conventions of different text types.

Higher-order skills such as argumentation, organization, and style should take precedence over simple grammar drills. Argumentative essays, opinion pieces, and formal emails are typical writing tasks at this stage, requiring learners to structure their thoughts coherently and use precise vocabulary. Process-oriented approaches, as outlined by Hyland (2003), encourage pre-writing activities such as brainstorming and outlining, followed by multiple drafts incorporating peer and teacher feedback.

Genre-based instruction plays a pivotal role in teaching students the conventions of various genres, such as formal reports, narrative essays, or reviews. Authentic materials, such as news articles, podcasts, and videos, significantly improve engagement and understanding of real-world language use. Gilmore (2007) notes that exposure to authentic materials helps learners develop pragmatic skills and better understand cultural contexts.

Integration of Speaking and Writing

Research supports the integration of speaking and writing activities to enhance overall communicative competence. Cumming (2001) suggests that combining modalities encourages deeper processing of linguistic input and output, leading to better retention and application.

Collaborative projects, such as creating podcasts, vlogs, or blogs, merge both modalities, encouraging students to think critically about content while practicing linguistic accuracy. For instance, students might write a script for a podcast episode and then record it, which improves both writing mechanics and spoken fluency.

Digital Tools and Innovations

Digital tools and online platforms have become indispensable in modern language education, offering innovative ways to enhance speaking and writing skills at the B2 level. Interactive apps, virtual classrooms, and AI-powered language assistants provide immediate feedback, facilitate collaboration, and create opportunities for authentic communication. Tools like Google Docs and Padlet support collaborative writing, while applications like Flipgrid and VoiceThread enable students to record and share spoken responses, promoting fluency through repeated practice.

Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) are emerging as powerful tools in language education. Research by Lui and Leung (2021) indicates that VR and AR provide immersive environments that enhance speaking practice and cultural understanding.

The flipped classroom model, where students review instructional materials at home and engage in interactive activities in class, has shown positive results in language learning. Bergmann and Sams (2012) argue that this approach allows more time for practice and teacher-student interaction during class. Project-based learning (PBL), as outlined by Larmer and Mergendoller (2015), engages students in meaningful tasks that require the application of both oral and written skills, enhancing linguistic competence and critical thinking.

Challenges and Solutions

Despite these innovative approaches, certain challenges persist in developing B2-level speaking and writing skills. Learners often struggle with maintaining motivation, managing cognitive load, or overcoming the fear of making mistakes. Gamification, or the use of game-like elements, can boost motivation and make learning more enjoyable. Deterding et al. (2011) suggest that incorporating challenges, rewards, and leaderboards in language lessons enhances engagement and participation.

Encouraging students to develop metacognitive strategies, such as self-monitoring and self-regulation, significantly improves language proficiency. Zimmerman (2002) highlights the importance of teaching learners to set goals, plan, monitor progress, and reflect on their learning process to become more autonomous.

Assessment plays a critical role in identifying strengths and areas for improvement. Rubrics assessing fluency, accuracy, content, and organization provide detailed feedback, enabling learners to focus on specific aspects of their performance. Black and Wiliam (1998) emphasize that formative assessment supports learning by identifying areas for improvement and guiding instructional strategies. Self-assessment and peer assessment further encourage reflection and autonomy.

Developing oral and written skills at the B2 level requires a comprehensive and learner-centered approach that integrates various effective methods. Communicative activities, task-based learning, and digital tools provide a strong foundation for enhancing language skills. Collaborative learning, the flipped classroom model, project-based learning, and the incorporation of authentic materials further support linguistic and cognitive development.

Advanced technologies such as VR and AR offer immersive environments that enhance speaking practice and cultural understanding. Encouraging students to develop metacognitive strategies, such as self-monitoring and self-regulation, significantly improves language proficiency. Gamification and language portfolios allow students to document their progress, reflect on their learning experiences, and set future goals.

Formative assessment techniques, such as regular quizzes, peer assessments, and self-reflections, provide continuous feedback and help students track their progress. Implementing a comprehensive assessment approach ensures that students focus on specific aspects of their performance and develop fluency, accuracy, content, and organization in their oral and written communication.

Future research should explore the impact of these innovative methods on long-term language acquisition and the evolving role of technology in education. By addressing the specific needs of learners and fostering an environment of exploration and creativity, educators can help students achieve fluency and accuracy in both speaking and writing.

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