Country Studies in teaching foreign languages at higher school

The article substantiates the relevance of the use of Country Studies materials in the English teaching process. It is emphasized on the importance of training future specialists in intercultural communication, cultural, professional and personal communication. The effectiveness of the use of Country Studies materials as an integral part of the foreign language teaching process has been revealed. It is emphasized that Country Studies material contributes to the formation of a linguistically competent personality and the upbringing of patriotism and citizenship; the success of the use of Country Studies materials in the process of teaching a foreign language and culture is determined by their interdisciplinary character. The principles that substantiate the general-didactic requirements to the organization of training, on which the systematic model of the use of Country Studies materials is based, are considered. The knowledge important for teaching alongside with the educational purposes gained during the study of their native land (geographic studies, historical ethnography, literary ethnography).