What strategies improve students confidence to speak in the target language?

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Authors

Bhurampawe, Bhunnarak

Issue Date

2023

Educational Level

ISCED 3: Upper secondary education

Curriculum Area

Geographical Setting

Thailand

Abstract

Context: This study takes place in Kuthong Phitthayalai School, a rural upper secondary school in Khon Kaen, Thailand. It focuses on Grade 11 students (17 years old) who have shown reluctance to participate in speaking activities in English, despite studying the language since Grade 7.

Aims: To explore the reasons behind students' hesitance to speak English, to evaluate the effectiveness of various speaking activities, and to identify strategies to boost their confidence in speaking English.

Methods: The teacher employed reflective journals, observation forms, and focus group interviews over a three-week period to assess students' attitudes towards speaking English and the challenges they face.

Findings: Students enjoyed speaking English in game-based activities but were hesitant to speak individually due to fear of making mistakes and a lack of confidence in their language skills. Strategies such as brainstorming, group work, and focusing on familiar topics helped increase their confidence.

Implications: Incorporating interactive and familiar context-based activities, along with peer support, can enhance students' confidence in speaking English. Encouraging group work and using a variety of engaging methods to practice speaking can improve language learning outcomes.

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Keywords (free text)

english as a foreign language , speaking

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