Investigating spelling challenges among junior high school students: a case of some selected schools in the Yendi Municipality

Abstract

Spelling is an indication of education. It is important for second language learners and specifically for students learning English as a Second Language. This study sought to investigate the specific spelling errors that are evident in the writings of junior high school students in some selected schools in the Yendi Municipality. This study employed a mixed method design. Stratified simple random sampling technique was used to select 120 students and purposive sampling technique was used to select 20 teachers of the various selected schools. Essay writing, spelling dictation test and semi structured interview were used to collect data for the study. Descriptive statistics of frequency counts and percentages as well as thematic analysis were used to analyze the data. The study revealed that the most common types of spelling errors committed by the students are substitution and omission of letter errors .The study recommended the inclusion of spelling rules in the curriculum and instruction of the schools.