Transformation of rhetorical competence of primary school students in the context of primary education rrefom

Abstract

The article presents a comprehensive scientific and methodological analysis of the transformation of rhetorical competence as a vital component of the linguistic and literary educational field, in accordance with the State Standard of Primary Education (2025 revision). The study explores the regulatory and legal framework for the formation of rhetorical skills within the Law of Ukraine «On Complete General Secondary Education» and the Concept of the «New Ukrainian School» (NUS). The author substantiates the role of rhetoric as a cross-cutting instrumental framework that ensures the practical realisation of ten key cross-cutting skills among primary school students, including critical thinking, collaboration, and emotional intelligence. A significant focus is placed on the comparative characteristics of expected learning outcomes at the end of the first (2nd grade) and second (4th grade) educational cycles. This comparison demonstrates a qualitative transition from basic communicative adaptation and etiquette mastery to conscious argumentation, evidence-based reasoning, and critical information analysis. The article further examines the practical aspects of implementing the 2025 State Standard through a new generation of textbooks and a shift in the teacher's methodological profile from a traditional instructor to a facilitator of the communicative environment. The research highlights the transdisciplinary nature of rhetoric, illustrating its integration into mathematical, natural science, and digital educational domains. To provide practical value for educators, the author proposes specific types of rhetorical exercises and «methodological cases» designed to enhance students' persuasive communication, media literacy, and non-violent interaction. The conclusion emphasises that rhetorical competence serves as an «operating system» for the modern student, enabling the effective application of knowledge in a dynamic social and digital discourse.

Keywords: State Standard; rhetorical competence; primary school students; cross-cutting skills; New Ukrainian School; argumentation; communicative strategy.