Experimental test of the effectiveness of motivational tasks in Russian language lessons in grades 5–6

<jats:p>This chapter presents the results of a pedagogical experiment that tested the effectiveness of a developed system of tasks aimed at increasing students' motivation to learn Russian. The control group studied using traditional methods, while the experimental group incorporated special motivational tasks based on regional language and speech material into their in-class and extracurricular activities. Three methods are described in detail: a “Table of Forbidden Words” (developing speech culture and self-control), a project-based study of a poem by a local author (updating the cultural code), and a translation analysis of a regional text. Quantitative and qualitative results of the initial and final assessments are presented, as well as a comparative analysis of the academic performance and engagement levels of students in the experimental and control classes. These findings demonstrate consistent positive trends. Qualitative changes were also recorded-increased cognitive independence, decreased anxiety, and increased engagement in class. It is concluded that the inclusion of regionally-focused motivational tasks is effective not only in increasing interest in the Russian language but also in improving subject achievement among students in grades 5 and 6.</jats:p>