Development of English Language Skills in Upper-Secondary School through Meaningful Learning

Abstract

The article deals with the problem of lack of motivation in upper-secondary school students when learning the English language in the school environment. Highly developed academic language skills are important when studying at the university and in their professional career. The author reflects on the basic theories on motivation, which is a precondition to a successful teaching and learning process. The aim of the article is to research and reveal the importance of understanding the nature of motivation that is the basis of meaningful learning so that appropriate teaching and learning strategies could be applied by upper-secondary school teachers. In addition, some strategies have been described in the article. Motivation is closely related to meaningful learning, which is to be implemented in the school environment. Although this issue was brought up a long time ago, it has not become school practice in many cases. The article offers some strategies that can be made use of when working on meaningful learning.