Improving students’ speaking skills in English classes by using open questions and interactive speaking methods
Loading...
Authors
Dauletiyarova, A.B.
Rashitova, M.B.
Serikbayeva, Zh.K.
Zhbir, O.V.
Issue Date
2025
Educational Level
ISCED Level 3 Upper secondary education
Curriculum Area
Geographical Setting
Kazakhstan
Abstract
Background and purpose: Speaking English fluently is an essential skill in the 21st century, yet many students struggle with active participation in speaking tasks, often remaining passive during class discussions. Research indicates that open-ended questions encourage deeper cognitive engagement and critical thinking, leading to more meaningful verbal responses (Walsh, 2011). Additionally, interactive speaking methods are viewed highly effective in fostering oral communication skills, providing students with authentic, real-world speaking opportunities, which are crucial for language development (Ellis, 2003; Nation & Newton, 2009). However, the fact that only a few students express their opinions openly during class discussions requires a thorough study of the planning of each lesson. Therefore, to find an answer to the problematic question "How to develop students' speaking skills in English lessons?", it was decided to conduct a lesson study.
Aims: This study aimed to investigate how open-ended questions and interactive speaking methods influence the development of students' speaking skills. By integrating these strategies, the research sought to determine their impact on student participation in class discussions and on encouraging students to confidently express their views.
Study design or methodology: Participants included 25 students of Grade 11 from Nazarbayev Intellectual School of Chemistry and Biology, aged 16-17. A mixed-methods approach was utilised, combining pre- and post-intervention speaking assessments, classroom observations, and qualitative feedback from students. Data were collected through video recordings, teacher observations, and post- lesson student interviews to measure changes in speaking skills.
Findings: The study revealed that student engagement and confidence heightened when participating in discussions; peer interaction increased, and low-performing students exhibited significant gains, moving from hesitant responses to more confident participation.
Conclusions, originality, value and implications: The findings underline the value of combining traditional teaching with interactive speaking methods and questioning to improve speaking skills. This approach can guide educators in modernising their teaching practices, emphasising student-centred learning and active participation.
Aims: This study aimed to investigate how open-ended questions and interactive speaking methods influence the development of students' speaking skills. By integrating these strategies, the research sought to determine their impact on student participation in class discussions and on encouraging students to confidently express their views.
Study design or methodology: Participants included 25 students of Grade 11 from Nazarbayev Intellectual School of Chemistry and Biology, aged 16-17. A mixed-methods approach was utilised, combining pre- and post-intervention speaking assessments, classroom observations, and qualitative feedback from students. Data were collected through video recordings, teacher observations, and post- lesson student interviews to measure changes in speaking skills.
Findings: The study revealed that student engagement and confidence heightened when participating in discussions; peer interaction increased, and low-performing students exhibited significant gains, moving from hesitant responses to more confident participation.
Conclusions, originality, value and implications: The findings underline the value of combining traditional teaching with interactive speaking methods and questioning to improve speaking skills. This approach can guide educators in modernising their teaching practices, emphasising student-centred learning and active participation.
Description
Keywords (free text)
speaking skills , open questions , interactive speaking methods , English language learning