The focus of this study is to interrogate the most effective ways of teaching English in a second language context. The research uses Effiduase Pentecost JHS as case study. The study asked participants 17 questions. The responses from the participants were analysed in relation to the main concern of this study. JHS 2 and JHS 3 students were involved in the study. The study excluded JHS 1 students because they had just entered JHS 1, and it was best they were excluded from the study. Due to the nature of the study, the study does not seek to generalize. But based on the responses from students in the case study, the study recommends to English Language tutors in second language contexts ways to teach their students.
The research found out that the audio visual method of learning language is as relevant as it ever was. Also, the research found out that most pupils were not introduced to English language early. Moreover, students’ responses showed that they rarely consulted the dictionary. However, most students endorsed the use of English language for official purposes and believed their proficiency in English played a role in the study of other subjects. Students also had an opportunity to make suggestions to tutors.
Table of Contents
ENGLISH IN GHANA
PREVIOUS STUDIES
BEHAVIOURISM AND CONTRASTIVE ANALYSIS
COGNITIVE AND ERROR ANALYSIS
INTERLANGUAGE AND NEMSER'S APPROXIMATE THEORY
ANALYSIS OF DATA
SUMMARY OF ANALYSIS
CONCLUSION ON RESEARCH FINDINGS
Research Objectives and Key Topics
The primary focus of this study is to investigate effective pedagogical strategies for teaching English within a second language context, utilizing Effiduase Pentecost Junior High School as a case study to develop a framework for instructors.
- Examination of language acquisition theories including Behaviorism and Cognitive Approaches.
- Analysis of Interlanguage theory and its implications for classroom instruction.
- Evaluation of students' learning habits regarding audio-visual methods and dictionary usage.
- Assessment of Ghanaian students' attitudes toward English as a medium of instruction.
- Exploration of the impact of teaching environment and instructor methods on student proficiency.
Excerpt from the Book
ANALYSIS OF DATA
This section of the study will analyse data gathered from the school under study. The study does a case study of Effiduase Pentecost Junior High School. A school located at Effiduase, Ashanti Region. Students from both basic 8( JHS 2) and basic 9( JHS 3) were involved in the study. JHS 3 class had 18 pupils while JHS 2 had 20 pupils. Thus the total sample space was 38 . Participants were asked 17 questions.
When pupils were asked of their level of proficiency on a level of 1 to 5, 5 pupils in JHS 2 believed they had a proficiency of 4 representing 25% of the class. 45% (9) of pupils gave themselves 3. While 6 (30%) pupils gave themselves 5. For JHS 3 class, 2 pupils representing 10% of the population rated themselves 2. Level 5 had 3 participants representing 15% while level 4 had 4 participants representing 20% of the total JHS 3 population . Level 3 on the other hand had 9 participants representing 45% of the total population. From the data pupils have low confidence in the proficiency levels. This study did not probe reasons for the level rating. However the conclusion this study draws is that student answered the question genuinely and thus showed their true level of proficiency.
Summary of Chapters
ENGLISH IN GHANA: This chapter provides a historical overview of the role of English in Ghana, noting its status as the official language and medium of instruction since independence.
PREVIOUS STUDIES: This section reviews existing literature on pedagogical challenges, effectiveness models, and language policies in Ghanaian schools.
BEHAVIOURISM AND CONTRASTIVE ANALYSIS: This chapter explores the foundational role of behaviorist theory in the development of contrastive analysis for foreign language teaching.
COGNITIVE AND ERROR ANALYSIS: This chapter discusses the shift toward cognitive theories of language acquisition and the development of error analysis methods.
INTERLANGUAGE AND NEMSER'S APPROXIMATE THEORY: This section details Interlanguage theory, focusing on approximative systems, fossilization, and its practical implications for teachers.
ANALYSIS OF DATA: This chapter presents the raw findings from the field study at Effiduase Pentecost JHS, including student proficiency ratings and learning habits.
SUMMARY OF ANALYSIS: This chapter synthesizes the main findings, emphasizing the importance of audio-visual methods and a conducive learning environment.
CONCLUSION ON RESEARCH FINDINGS: This final chapter concludes the study by recommending evidence-based strategies, such as fostering reading habits and rejecting corporal punishment, for English language tutors.
Key Words
Second Language Acquisition, Interlanguage, English in Ghana, Pedagogical Strategies, Effiduase Pentecost JHS, Contrastive Analysis, Error Analysis, Audio-visual Method, Language Policy, Fossilization, Student Proficiency, Teaching Framework, Classroom Environment, Linguistic Competence, Teacher Education.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary focus of this research?
The research investigates the most effective pedagogical strategies for teaching English as a second language, focusing specifically on the experiences and responses of students at Effiduase Pentecost Junior High School.
What are the central thematic fields explored?
The work covers language acquisition theories (Behaviorism, Cognitive theory), Interlanguage, the historical context of English in Ghana, and empirical classroom data analysis.
What is the primary research question?
The study primarily asks how English can be more effectively taught in a second language context and what frameworks can be developed based on the needs and feedback of the students.
Which scientific methods are employed?
The study utilizes a qualitative case study design, employing surveyed responses to 17 questions from students in JHS 2 and JHS 3, alongside a review of existing linguistic literature.
What topics are covered in the main body?
The body deals with the linguistic theories of Chomsky and Skinner, Selinker’s Interlanguage theory, the challenges of English-only policies, and detailed data regarding current student learning behaviors.
Which keywords characterize this paper?
The work is defined by terms such as Interlanguage, Second Language Acquisition, Linguistic Theory, and Pedagogical Effectiveness.
How do students at the studied school perceive English?
Overall, students recognize English as vital for their education and careers, although many admit to rarely consulting dictionaries and struggle with grammar interference from their native Twi.
What significance does the "audio-visual method" hold in the findings?
The findings conclude that audio-visual methods, such as listening to music or watching films, are highly effective and essential for improving student proficiency in a second language context.
- Arbeit zitieren
- Harry Milton Hayford (Autor:in), 2023, Teaching English in a Second Language Context. A Case Study of Effiduase Pentecost JHS, München, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/1300005
