Abstract:

Methodology of teaching foreign languages (including Russian) outlines two main directions - training students with major in linguistics and non-linguists. Teaching a foreign language at special focus institutions (for example, technical ones) aims at development of professionally oriented speech competence of students as well as forming a professional language of future specialists.

The author analyzes the features of professionally oriented education and reports basic conditions for maximizing its results. Initially, it is reasoned that a teacher of a foreign language should master certain knowledge in the field of students’ major. In this matter, help of subject teachers and interdepartmental interaction play an important role. One more core condition for efficient foreign language teaching is the use of teaching materials designed for specific university majors. In order to enhance reading and speech skills in the professional area, these methodological materials should include authentic problem-oriented texts.

In addition, professionally oriented language teaching concentrates on selection and mastering vocabulary. It should be realized what minimum vocabulary in the professional area students have to learn at a certain stage of their studies. Therefore, the basic vocabulary is compiled in accordance with the requirements of the corresponding certification level. In selecting special purpose vocabulary, it is essential to choose the part of the vocabulary (a term system) that will correspond to the mission and conditions of a certain course in the given concentration. In this regard, professionally orientated foreign language learning is not simple acquisition of certain professional knowledge in the university major; it is directly connected with language and speech practice.

Keywords:

Foreign language, professionally oriented education, language of the university major, vocabulary.