Whither English

by Lal Kannangara,

Our children are taught English officially from grade three and sometimes from the Kindergarten itself. Having learnt English for nearly twelve years at school, most of the students fail to utter a few words in English when they say good bye to their alma-mater.

The President has rightly understood the reality and a novel way of teaching English has been introduced to help our children who lack exposure to the language. A cross section of educationists and students aired their views in this regard:

Mrs. P. A. D. Suneetha, The Principal, Central College, Matugama and former directress of English, Central Province: "The government spends a large sum of money for English education in Sri Lanka. But I doubt whether we get any satisfactory returns. Teachers of English are the decisive factor for the improvement of the language or its downfall.

They can generate interest in children towards positive learning. I personally believe that a single period is not enough for our children to learn English. We should organise various activities where they can actively participate to enhance language skills. During my short spell in this school, we organised several "English Camps". I feel very happy when I observe their performances. I make it a point to speak English as far as possible during the school hours. May be it is difficult at the outset, but the situation will improve once the children get used to it. We have organised a novel program called "Singing Assembly". It is conducted once a month and the students appear to have improved their vocabulary and pronunciation to a great deal. H. A. Sunil Raj in-Service English Instructor: "Teachers should apply different methods and techniques in the art of teaching English".

It is also important to be aware of the student's level of understanding for the teachers to start helping them. Many English teachers who are quite optimistic are prepared to change their attitudes. Teachers who have changed their attitudes have shown good results in their schools. I strongly believe that all four language skills should be intergrated leaving no language skill isolated. However, merely "finishing" text books will not result in imparting the language. Teachers can make use of different sources to design good lessons. Children like activity-based lessons and they should be given opportunities to use the language.

Mrs. Indira Wijesinghe, English teacher Horawala Navodya M.V.: English teachers have to play a very big role to make the students interested in the language.

They like English provided their lessons are not boring. So, teachers should step into the class with much preparation. I'm optimistic that English as a life skill will be a success. As far as the present text books are concerned, I think they are better than the previous books. Anyhow we should not confine ourselves to text books. We have to take extra pains in preparing lessons for the students.

In rural areas, both parents and children are not aware of the importance of an international language like English. When they pass their O/L, they find employment in the garment sector but they will feel the necessity of English only after a certain period of time. Apart from that, spoken English should be tested at O/Levels.

Ruwan Weerakoon a manager of a private firm: I did my English fairly well at school. When I was at the university I had to do my studies in English medium. I had to follow certain courses to brush up my language. I think they helped me a lot. Most of the children do not like to learn English at school.

So, teachers must understand this and remedy the situation. They should not confine themselves to the books. I think a good grammar book has to be introduced to our schools. The present set of books being used in schools dosen't give inspiration to students. Present day texts are not methodically designed to help learn English. Teachers should motivate children to learn English.

Tharaka Madushan Somarathne, Grade thirteen student, Wayamba Royal College, Kurunegala: I am pleased with the work done at the school. I studied in Sinhala medium up to grade five. I started doing my studies in English when I was promoted to grade six. I think it was a turning point in my life. At the beginning I thought it would be difficult for me to study in English medium. With the help of the glossary, I could do my studies in a better way. My mother being an English teacher helps me a lot. Now I am doing my A/Levels in English in the Science stream. When I have a problem I always ask my teachers and they certainly help me. I think children should have the determination to do so. Anybody can learn English provided he works hard. I think at least one subject has to be learnt in the English medium. There is no other way."

We have introduced many methods from time to time. Children have many avenues to learn English. Unlike our days today the children are provided with lots of facilities to learn English. But do they really learn English? With all the facilities to learn the language some students have developed a kind of phobia when it comes to learn English.

Learning and teaching of English has drawn much criticism from students, teachers and educationists. The government from time to time has introduced many novel methods to make English a popular subject among students. However, no major breakthrough has been made in this regard so far. A new approach "English as a life skill" has to be viewed with optimism because it is bound to create an interest in students.