Breaking the language barrier

Sylvia Danan David

THE challenge for English teachers is better educating students amidst the language barrier. Recently, results of the Programme for International Assessment (PISA) show that reading in English is a weakness of our learners.

Because this is so, it may also affect the performance of learners in Science and Math, as the language of instruction and testing in later grades is English.

This is why the DepEd’s Curriculum and Instruction strand, specifically Bureau of Curriculum Development (BCD), and Bureau of Education Assessment (BEA) have been tasked to study this further.

Obviously, there is a need to strengthen teaching and learning in English, if we are to continue with English as our language of instruction and testing.

English teachers should work hard to guide their students who are struggling with English. Support and help them when they get “stuck” on a word.

One way to develop confidence in creativity is having students write their own stories – or even work together with their classmates. Let them use their imagination through postcards or other aids.

According to research, most students draw inspiration from reading, so why not provide a reading nook in the classroom? Provide literature that is culturally relevant, age appropriate, and accessible. Also, allow students to research topics of interest. If students are truly interested in a topic, they will probably learn the language more.

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The author is Teacher III at Porac National High School