SDCA Journal of Communication and Media Studies

Abstract

Many people believe that knowing a language is similar to being able to speak it, and as a result, they perceive learning a language as understanding how to speak it. This study identifies the challenges in teaching speaking in English as a Second Language (ESL) classes and explains how ESL English teachers teach speaking to the students. A total of five (5) English teachers took part in the study. Through a series of interviews, the study explores the strategies in teaching speaking to the Filipino students and the challenges that they face while enhancing the proficiency of the students in speaking during their classroom activities. The study revealed that according to the teachers, Filipino tertiary students or ESL learners lack confidence in speaking, because they are intimidated by the fear of producing mistakes in pronunciation, grammar or vocabulary while speaking. Nonetheless, some ESL teachers have already developed strategies on how to deal with the challenges in teaching speaking. The study further recommended that teachers should promote the use of the English language through institutionalized programs like the Speak English Movement.

Keywords: Speaking skills strategies; English as a Second Language; College learners.