Analysing concord errors in students’ communication in English: the case of Walewale Presby Junior High School

Abstract

The poor performance of students of Walewale Presbyterian Junior High School in concord and English in general has become enormous and hence a source of worry to parents, teachers and the general public. In this perspective, the main aim of this research work is to establish the reasons for the poor performance of students in the three areas of concord. In this study, qualitative research approach was used. Traditional grammar theory was used as a framework which provided the basis for the study. The instruments used to collect data were questionnaire, observation, test, and interview. The researcher conducted a pre-test which enabled him to ascertain the level of the problem. Analysis of data from the study revealed that the use of inappropriate teaching techniques by teachers of English, inadequate teaching and learning materials, lack of motivation from teachers and parents, failure of teachers to make grammar learning child-centred, and lack of qualified English teachers among others have contributed immensely to the students‘ poor performance in concord and English in general. Consequently, it has been suggested that schools should establish reading clubs and provide students with adequate reading materials so that they would be able to read wide and extensively. Government should improve basic schools libraries and provide schools with the needed teaching materials to facilitate the teaching and learning process of English language