One of the key challenges in contemporary education is finding effective ways to connect different disciplines and develop skills that enable students to comprehensively understand complex topics. STEM requires precision, analytical thinking, and clear communication, yet linguistic competencies, which are fundamental to these processes, often receive insufficient attention. Language skills such as describing, explaining, and arguing not only support STEM content but actively shape it, thus deserving a central place in pedagogical strategies.

This article explores how the didactics of the Slovenian language can contribute to the development of analytical thinking and communication skills, both of which are essential for successfully addressing STEM topics. The aim is to demonstrate how language skills, such as precise explanation of concepts, procedural descriptions, and argumentation, enhance the understanding of complex STEM concepts and foster critical thinking.

The study is based on an analysis of pedagogical approaches that incorporate linguistic activities, such as writing descriptions, interpreting data, and formulating arguments within the context of STEM topics. Special emphasis is placed on developing the ability to communicate clearly and structurally, which improves collaboration and the exchange of ideas among students. The article also includes an analysis of practical examples where linguistic strategies contributed to more effective problem-solving and better understanding of concepts such as energy flows, mathematical algorithms, and technological processes.

The results indicate that integrating language skills into STEM education offers multifaceted benefits. Students not only achieve a deeper understanding of the content but also acquire essential competencies for critical thinking, logical reasoning, and clear communication, all of which are indispensable in the modern world. This contribution opens new possibilities for intertwining language and STEM didactics and encourages innovative pedagogical practices.

The article holds significant implications for teachers and curriculum designers, offering practical solutions for strengthening the connection between communication skills and STEM education. Understanding these synergies can contribute to higher-quality education and better preparation of students for the complex challenges of the 21st century.

Keywords: Analytical thinking, communication skills, critical thinking, language didactics, STEM education.