MODERN METHODS AND APPROACHES FOR DEVELOPING SPEAKING SKILLS IN PRIMARY SCHOOL LEARNERS

Abstract

Speaking is a fundamental skill that underpins learners’ communicative competence and ability to participate in social, academic, and cultural life. In primary education, the development of speaking skills is particularly important because early childhood is a critical period for language acquisition and communicative development. This article explores modern methods and approaches to developing speaking skills in primary school learners, adopting a systematic review and analytical synthesis of literature from 2010 to 2025. The study categorizes pedagogical approaches into four main clusters: communicative-based methods (Communicative Language Teaching and Task-Based Learning), integrated approaches (Content and Language Integrated Learning), narrative-based approaches (storytelling, drama, and role-play), and technology-driven approaches (digital tools, gamification, and mobile learning). The findings demonstrate that interactive, learner-centered, and multimodal teaching strategies foster fluency, accuracy, and confidence in young learners. However, challenges such as classroom size, teacher preparedness, and technological inequality limit full implementation. The article concludes with recommendations for teachers, curriculum designers, and policymakers to adopt hybrid, flexible approaches that combine traditional and digital methods.