TEACHING ENGLISH IN PRIMARY SCHOOL: CURRENT ISSUES AND SOLUTIONS

Abstract

This article examines the current state of Kazakhstan’s education system in the context of international rankings 
and national language policy. The primary aim is to identify challenges in teaching English at the primary level and to 
explore effective solutions that can enhance competitiveness in the global arena. The analysis highlights several 
pressing issues, including overcrowded classrooms, a shortage of qualified teachers, low student motivation, and limited 
use of interactive technologies. Particular attention is given to innovative approaches such as Content and Language 
Integrated Learning (CLIL) and the Singapore Math methodology, both of which foster critical thinking and communicative skills among learners. The findings suggest that these methods hold significant potential for improving 
educational outcomes, yet their successful implementation requires systemic reforms and comprehensive support from 
policymakers. The study emphasizes the importance of integrating modern methodologies into the broader framework 
of Kazakhstan’s trilingual education model, which prioritizes Kazakh while simultaneously advancing Russian and 
English. The key conclusion is that strategic reforms, combined with the adoption of innovative pedagogical practices, 
are essential for strengthening the international competitiveness of Kazakhstan’s education system and preparing 
students to meet the demands of the global labor market. Thus, this work contributes to the development of the 
scientific discourse on trilingualism and can serve as a foundation for improving educational policy.