Breaking Barriers: Innovative Approaches to Teaching English to Novice Language Learners in Higher Education

In the rapidly evolving landscape of English language education in Azerbaijan, this article offers a comprehensive look at the teaching methodologies   and   challenges   encountered   in   a   foundational English language course at Nakhchivan State University's Foreign Languages Faculty. This first-year, first-semester course comprises 14  female  students  with  diverse  language  backgrounds  and  skill levels.  Led  by  a  seasoned  lecturer  boasting  over  15  years  of experience  in  language  teaching—seven  of  which  were  in  higher education—the  course  aims  to  lay  a  strong  foundation  for  future academic  pursuits  in  English.  Primarily  focusing  on  speaking skills,   the   course   employs   a   blend   of   the   Direct   Method, storytelling,  and  listening  exercises  to  maximize  first-time  English exposure.  With  students  ranging  from  complete  beginners  to  more advanced   learners,   the   article   scrutinizes   the   complexities   of varying  skill  levels  and  outlines  practical  strategies  for  tackling these  challenges.  In  doing  so,  it  offers  invaluable  reflections and insights for educators navigating similar pedagogical terrains.