The Implementation Of Group Work Activities In Teaching English Language At Yubdo Preparatory School:Grade Eleven In Focus.

Abstract

This study was conducted to explore the implementation of group work activities in teaching English language at Yubdo Preparatory School, grade 11. To achieve this objective, descriptive study was employed. Data were gathered from 80 students, 16.7% of the total population in three randomly selected classrooms, and four English language teachers through three instruments (observation, questionnaire and interview). The data collected through the questionnaire were analyzed using descriptive statistics (frequency and percentage). But those data gathered through classroom observations, semi-structured interview and open ended questions were analyzed qualitatively. The results of the study revealed that both students and teachers perceive group work positively. However, the followings were found to be the main factors/problems encountered during group work activities: since students were not given orientations about their roles in- group work, they did not play their expected roles, some students came with poor educational background and low language proficiency ; as a result, they intended to use their L1 or they become careless to take part in activities, group activities were conducted intermittently and the time given for group work was not sufficient , there was no group leader and secretary in each group and the formed groups last only for a period, some students lack experience of working in groups; some were passive for the activities were not graded, in some active learners used to dominate the group; because of fear or lack of self confidence some students failed to take part in group work. Therefore, possible recommendations were forwarded for the concerned bodies to alleviate the existing problems proved by the study.