THE POTENTIAL OF MOTIVATIONAL SPEECHES IN TEACHING ENGLISH TO FUTURE BORDER GUARD OFFICERS

Abstract

The article examines the potential of using motivational speeches delivered by military commanders as an instrument for developing the professional communicative competence of future officers in the process of learning English at higher military educational institutions. It is emphasized that the addresses of Ukrainian commanders, particularly those aimed at mobilizing personnel, strengthening psychological resilience, and consolidating units, represent a valuable didactic resource that makes it possible to integrate linguistic, leadership, and moral-value training of cadets. It is argued that authentic motivational speeches contain examples of contemporary military rhetoric, reflect the principles of mission command, intercultural interaction, and strategic communication, and incorporate psychological mechanisms of influence that enhance internal motivation and unit cohesion.

The study shows that the use of such speeches in language training promotes the development of listening comprehension skills, analytical reading, mastery of professional military English terminology, modelling of commander’s addresses, and participation in moral-ethical discussions. The most effective instructional formats for integrating motivational speeches into the classroom are identified, including situational case studies, rhetorical analysis, translation exercises, comparison of English- and Ukrainian-language texts, and preparation of cadets’ own speeches. The significance of the intercultural component is emphasized through the inclusion of speeches by NATO commanders, which deepens the understanding of shared military values and facilitates the integration of Ukrainian officers into a multinational environment.

It is noted that promising directions for further research include analysing the use of combat narratives and real operational stories as sources for developing strategic thinking; studying the impact of emotionally charged texts on the formation of psychological resilience among future officers; and designing comprehensive training modules that combine motivational speeches, leadership case studies, and English-language simulations of service-related situations. It is argued that the systematic incorporation of such materials into the educational process will contribute to preparing officers capable of effective communication, leadership, and decision-making in dynamic and multinational operational environments.