Formation of Key Competences in Learners through Fairy Tales: The Example of Halyna Huzovska-Korytska's "The Fox-Merchant"

Abstract

The article focuses on the issue of forming key competencies of learners in the process of studying Ukrainian literature under the conditions of modern educational challenges. The relevance of the research is determined by the requirements of the State Standard of Basic Secondary Education, which emphasizes the development of a competent, socially active, creative and adaptable personality capable of lifelong learning.

The study substantiates the feasibility of using modern Ukrainian literary texts in literature lessons, extracurricular activities, native literature courses, and integrated language and literature lessons. The article highlights the possibilities of developing communicative, civic and social, cultural, information and digital competencies, critical thinking skills, emotional intelligence, empathy, as well as entrepreneurial competences and financial literacy through purposeful work with the fairy tale text. Particular attention is paid to interactive, situational and project-based teaching methods, reading with anticipation, interpretation of literary images, group work, dramatization, and the use of digital platforms and social networks.

The paper analyzes the image of the main character, the Fox, as a multifaceted literary figure whose actions and experiences allow students to model real-life situations, identify risks, analyze mistakes, and search for constructive ways to overcome failures. The fairy tale is considered as a powerful tool for discussing ethical dilemmas, stereotypes, responsibility for one’s actions, and the importance of emotional support in crisis situations.

The article proves that the use of the fairy tale The Fox-Merchant contributes not only to improving reading motivation and language proficiency but also to the formation of an integrated system of key competencies necessary for students’ successful self-realization in modern society.