GROUP WORK STRATEGIES IN TEACHING ENGLISH TO STUDENTS OF RUSSIAN PHILOLOGY

Abstract

The article deals with a problem of using group work strategies in teaching communication skills to philology students. The author gives a brief outline of group work methods. Some aspects of their history are touched upon. The definition of group work by various researchers is presented. Advantages and disadvantages of the method are considered. The author underlines that group work is especially important in foreign language teaching. The function of the teacher in group work is described and analyzed and the roles they can take are mentioned. Some difficulties in performing these roles are touched on. The stages of group work in class are enumerated and described from the point of view of several scientists. Major emphasis is placed on the preparatory stage, as it is essential for developing students’ motivation and further activity. Particular attention is paid to different types of group work strategies such as jigsaw, brainstorming and others. The article suggests a way of applying group work activities while teaching English to philology students. The level of their motivation after the practice is also considered.