GENRE AND DIDACTIC CHARACTERISTICS OF KARAKALPAK RIDDLES

Abstract

This study examines the genre-specific and didactic characteristics of Karakalpak riddles and their pedagogical significance in the development of primary school pupils’ cognitive skills. As a traditional form of oral folklore, Karakalpak riddles embody the historical worldview, cultural values, and aesthetic perceptions of the Karakalpak people. Despite their brevity, riddles contain rich figurative, symbolic, and metaphorical elements that stimulate logical reasoning, imaginative thinking, and interpretative skills. The study analyzes the structural, thematic, and stylistic features of riddles, emphasizing their dialogical form, imagery, and metaphorical construction. Particular attention is given to their developmental potential in fostering attention, memory, speech competence, creativity, and problem-solving abilities among young learners.