Modern schoolchildren’s interest in reading in the process of learning a foreign language

Aim. To identify the level of interest of schoolchildren in reading educational texts in a foreign language, as well as the general reading preferences of secondary school students (grades 5-8).

Procedures and methods. Within the framework of this study, theoretical methods were used (analysis of scientific, educational and methodological literature and regulatory documents on educational activities, analysis of the data obtained), and empirical methods (questionnaires, conversation, comparative analysis).

Results. The study revealed a decrease in motivation to read both at the native and foreign languages among students in grades 6 and 7. Grade 5 students, on the contrary, show a sufficient level of interest in reading. Grade 8 also showed a high level of engagement in the reading process as a whole. On the other hand, it can be concluded that educational texts in a foreign language do not correlate with the sphere of interests of older teenagers.

Theoretical and/or practical significance. The study identifies both the reading potential and the literary preferences of secondary school students. The results obtained may be of interest to students of pedagogical universities and teachers, and can be used in the preparation and conducting of foreign language lessons.

Conclusion. Based on the survey, it can be concluded that foreign texts presented in a foreign language textbook are not capable of involving the students in the process of reading in the classroom. The results also indicate the need to include foreign language texts that meet the interests of teenagers.

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