Abstract
<jats:p>The article explores the use of educational discussions and mini-debates as an effective tool for enhancing student motivation in English language classes. The author highlights the relevance of these formats in developing communicative competence, as well as creative and critical thinking. The paper presents the results of a pedagogical experiment, during which students regularly engaged in discussions and demonstrated increased motivation and improved speaking skills. The structure of the program, including thematic modules and stages of preparation for debates, is described. The study concludes that mini-debates have significant potential for fostering active speech engagement and a sustainable interest in language learning.</jats:p>