EFFECTIVE USE OF ENGLISH IN EFL CLASSES TO DEVELOP LEARNERS’ COMMUNICATIVE SKILLS WITH SOME SECONDARY SCHOOLS OF OUEME REGION IN BENIN REPUBLIC

Abstract

Language teaching in a foreign language context is challenging, especially in Benin, where learners should cope with multiple mother tongues and the French language. Recent years have seen many exciting developments in language teaching at the level of syllabus and methodology, with the growth of interesting and innovative approaches challenging our traditional views. This research work examines the impact of an effective use of the English language on EFL learners’ communicative skills. To collect relevant data, questionnaires were addressed to ten (10) teachers and hundred (100) learners, randomly selected in Ouémé region. Eight (08) classroom observations and interviews have also been carried out. The study's findings reveal that a significant number of learners encounter challenges in oral communication, primarily stemming from their limited grasp of grammar and vocabulary. This limitation is exacerbated by the prevalent use of languages other than English during English classes. This research demonstrates that utilizing the target language exclusively in EFL classes enhances language exposure, greatly benefiting EFL students’ communicative performance.