Development of Reading Ability in Childhood by the Example of Georgian Language

Abstract

The State policy of the three of languages in the Republic of Kazakhstan suggests speaking three languages: Kazakh as a state language, Russian as a language of international communication and English as a language of successful integration into global economics. With more than 130 nationalities living in Kazakhstan, most of the population is bilingual (Kazakh and Russian). People’s studying of English is motivated by the government programmes on the development at all stages of education. Introduction of trilingualism at the Universities provides opening English departments, systematic work on publishing and translation of University text-books into English and studying languages based on international standards. All teachers who participated in the survey chose Kazakh as their mother tongue and 87.50% of them are bilingual. The survey results show that 75% of respondents consider themselves trilingual, whereas 25% of them are not sure whether their knowledge of one language matches the level of the others. According to the teachers, the most difficult matter in teaching subjects in English for them is using correct grammar and verb forms in their speech (50%); choosing appropriate methods of teaching (12.5%); finding and selecting necessary study materials (12.5%) and listening and speaking (12.5%). At the same time 12.5% of respondents have no difficulties at all in the process of teaching in English. The best way of improving English, as the teachers think, is reading books in English (37.5%). 25% of teachers suggest practicing English with a native speaker or improving the language skills abroad. 86.36% of students are bilingual and 65.91% of them are trilingual. All students (100%) responded that they like studying in English and 72.73% of them are satisfied with the process and level of teaching in English. 25% students see benefits in gaining and enhancing knowledge with the help of English, which helps them better communicate with foreign people (20.5%). 13.6% of students reported that studying in English is interesting, helpful and just a great experience being a wide source of information and first access to world literature (11.4%). Besides, knowledge of English opens an expanding perspective, opportunities for a future profession and makes it possible to develop into a qualified specialist (11.4%). 9.1% students surveyed that knowing English they can participate in academic exchanges, study medicine in foreign countries and work abroad. English is the key to confidence, self-popularization (6.8%) and enhanced mental activity (2.2%). Teaching and studying in English is challenging for the teachers and students of the University yet offering new skills and opportunities in their career path.