# Developing Speaking Skills in Third-Grade Students Through the Analysis of Visual Material in Two Languages (Lithuanian and English)

## TL;DR

This study explores how using visual material in Lithuanian and English lessons helps third-grade students improve their speaking skills.

## Contribution

The study introduces a novel approach to developing speaking skills through bilingual visual material analysis in primary education.

## Key findings

- Students improved their ability to express thoughts in both Lithuanian and English through visual material analysis.
- The use of mind maps and bilingual questioning enhanced vocabulary and speaking accuracy.
- Evaluation showed progress in English pronunciation and sentence structure.

## Abstract

In language classes, speaking skills are often taken for granted, and not enough attention is paid to developing these skills in a targeted way. In our study, the speaking skills of third-grade students (N = 46) are developed in integrated Lithuanian and English lessons through the analysis of visual material. Visual material is an aid and a means for expanding students’ vocabulary and developing their ability to express their thoughts verbally. The students are aged 9–10 years old. The aim of the study was to investigate the development of third-grade students’ speaking skills using visual material analysis in two languages. The Action Research was conducted in a school in one of Lithuania’s major cities. During the Action Research, students completed mind maps and analyzed visual material by answering questions in two languages. The questions were designed to cover different groups of thinking skills (knowledge and understanding, drawing conclusions, interpretation, and evaluation). The students spoke their prepared answers to the questions. The accuracy and correctness of the answers, English pronunciation, and the ability to speak in complete sentences were evaluated.