Development of Cross-Cutting Skills in Secondary Education Students Through the Use of Textbooks «Exploring Nature»

Abstract

The article addresses the role of textbooks in shaping cross-cutting skills that are part of all key competencies outlined in the State Standard for Basic Secondary Education. An analysis of recent publications reveals a predominant focus on a competency-based approach, reflecting conceptual principles of textbook creation for the New Ukrainian School. However, these publications insufficiently illuminate the essence and formation of cross-cutting skills through school textbooks.
 The potential of author-created textbooks for the integrated course 'Exploring Nature' for grades 5-6 in fostering cross-cutting skills outlined in the State Standard for Basic Secondary Education is explored. Examples of tasks and text constructions are demonstrated as tools for developing each cross-cutting skill.
 It is emphasized that the formation of cross-cutting skills is both a process and a result. As a process, it requires active cognitive engagement from each learner, with textbooks serving as motivators and organizers. As a result, cross-cutting skills ensure the acquisition of key competencies and the realization of the personal potential of students, contributing to the development of the teacher's creative individuality.
 The article underscores the importance of textbook categorization in the development of cross-cutting skills. It highlights that textbooks serve as guides in shaping cross-cutting skills and do not interfere with teachers' methodological preferences.
 The methodology described in the article for forming cross-cutting skills can be applied by textbook authors from various school subjects, researchers in textbook creation, and educators aiming to implement the conceptual foundations of the New Ukrainian School. The article outlines perspectives for further research on the development of cross-cutting skills.