ADVANTAGES OF USING PALEONTOLOGICAL COMPONENTS IN EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES IN THE ENGLISH LANGUAGE FOR MIDDLE -SCHOOL STUDENTS

Abstract

The article explores the use of elements of paleontology in extracurricular activities in the English language. Such integration is consistent with the current language policy of Kazakhstan, as well as the programs "Tugan Zher" and "Sacred Geography of Kazakhstan". The authors state that the educational materials enriched with the linguocultural and historical components contribute to the introduction of students to the linguistic cultures of other ethnic groups within a single state, and also increase the motivation for learning languages. It has been proven that now extinct animals — mammoths, dinosaurs and other representatives of zoological species known from archaeological finds — lived on the territory of Kazakhstan. The correct use of these rich materials in the project activities of schoolchildren provides opportunities for developing social activism and improving cross-cultural and linguistic competencies. The authors refer to the experience of British expert paleontologist Gareth Dyke and leading researcher Dmitry Malakhov (Department of Earth Remote Sensing, NCSRT) for confirming their hypothesis that elements of paleontology in extracurricular activities in the English language could contribute to the expansion of knowledge base in such school subjects as English and Biology. Thus, the integration of paleontology in students’ extracurricular activities and the study of English in project activities can potentially provide a deeper immersion in the culture and history of their country and their small homeland.