LANGUAGE FOR SPECIFIC PURPOSES (LSP): PECULIARITIES OF HISTORIC DEVELOPMENT

Abstract

The article presents the analysis of the origin and development of “language for specific purposes” in close connection with the history of society. Technological and informational changes of the late XX century and early XXI century affected the nature of theoretical research and practical study of specific language that serves the professional sphere of human activity. The theory of functional styles was created, the definition of the term “style” was given, oral and written forms of language were defined, functional variants of language, etc. Since the 1960s, the teaching of English for special purposes has undergone different approaches. At different times, the object of study were the analysis of individual sublanguages, texts, target situations, and analysis of the mechanisms involved in the assimilation of the material; the object of study was language learning itself.Thus, the language for specific purposes should be regarded as a flexible approach in foreign language studying, based on the needs of the target audience. However, despite all the flexibility and variability of LSP programs, there are specific criteria that must be considered when using this approach. First of all, you need to know what students expect from the course, what goals they pursue. It is important to calculate the time of studying, to take into account whether they will use a foreign language after the course or students are forced to use it just during the course. One has to identify topics to study and select the appropriate teaching methodology and theory that is most appropriate for a particular ESP course. All the details should be considered, even the premises where the course will take place: itsadvantages and the limitations it may impose on the work must be also taken into account. It is also important to know exactly how students will use English: to read scientific texts, in real-life communication, to study instructions, to write business letters, and so on.
 Keywords: language for specific purposes; method; historical development; foreign language training; professional language; vocational education.