EMMANUELA’S LASTEST REPORTED VERSION

EMMANUELA’S LASTEST REPORTED VERSION

EMMANUELA’S LASTEST REPORTED VERSION DECEMEBER  2017

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

The English language remains a basic pillar in teaching and learning in Nigeria. This is because English language is the nation’s official language of instruction in schools. It breaks the barriers of wider communication and it is also core subject for the students in Nigerian schools. It is very significant in ensuring the success of any educational achievement in the school. The language is given the status of second and official language in Nigeria and it enjoys pre-eminence over the 400 different indigenous languages in the country (Ogunji, 2013). Ogbuehi (2003) posits that the existence of many unrelated languages in Nigeria makes it imperative for the English language to be adopted as the official language. Onuigbo and Eyisi (2009) observe that English language in Nigeria possesses the status of a second language since it is the language in which most Nigerians have the second linguistic competence and psychological disposition. Thus, the language remains the medium of acquiring formal education which enhances the social life of individuals through teaching and learning.

The teaching and learning of English language is given special attention in the Nigeria school system because it has a significant positive effect on students’ academic achievement. Teaching is an important aspect in the learning process. Oboegbulem (2006) defines teaching as an attempt to help someone acquire or change some skills, attitudes, knowledge or idea. Agwu (2005) stated that efficient teaching should facilitate and enhance learning which will be effective enough to achieve the objectives of the teaching-learning encounter. A teacher is expected to be guided by some principles which will help him acquire competence in teaching and consequently make learning efficient. Agwu, (2005) identifies such principles to include active participation of learners, relating classroom activities to the students’ life experiences, frequent repetition, reinforcement, wide range of experience for generalization and discrimination, amongst others.

Teaching is a complex process consisting of several variables such as demonstrations, styles, strategies and methods. Teaching English language has its own unique process which is much different from any other school subject. English language is dynamic and as a result, the English teacher has to be abreast of innovations and changes in the field. It requires enormous responsibility from the English language teacher (Agwu, 2005). The English language teachers’ qualification has a significant role to play in the teaching learning process especially in a subject like English language. Since English language is a second language, it requires that the subject teachers should be well trained in the methodology, techniques and strategies in teaching the subject. It is only when teachers are well trained in the subject area that they will be in a better position to impart meaningfully to the students. Teaching English language in Nigeria is demanding due to the fact that English language is an official language in Nigeria and also foreign to the Nigerian society.

EMMANUELA’S LASTEST REPORTED VERSION