BRIDGING THE GAP: EVALUATING THE ALIGNMENT AND EFFECTIVENESS OF THE NATIONAL MIDDLE SCHOOL EFL CURRICULUM WITH TESOL STANDARDS IN THE UZBEKISTAN CONTEXT
Keywords:
Keywords: EFL Curriculum, Uzbekistan, TESOL Standards, Curriculum Alignment, Middle School Education, Communicative Competence, Curriculum Effectiveness.Abstract
Abstract
This paper investigates the alignment and effectiveness of the current National
Middle School English as a Foreign Language (EFL) Curriculum in Uzbekistan
with internationally recognized TESOL (Teachers of English to Speakers of Other
Languages) Standards (TESOL International Association, 2018). While Uzbekistan
has prioritized English language education, ensuring that national curricula meet global
best practices is crucial for student success and teacher professional development. This
study employs a qualitative content analysis approach, comparing the stated goals,
learning outcomes, and assessment methods of the national curriculum documents
against the TESOL P-12 Professional Teaching Standards. Initial findings suggest a
strong foundational alignment in promoting communicative competence but identify
potential gaps in areas related to Sociolinguistic Competence and the systematic
development of critical thinking skills through English. The paper concludes by
recommending specific, evidence-based revisions to the national curriculum to
enhance its effectiveness and ensure graduates are prepared for global communication
and academic pursuits.
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