Teaching English as a second language in Grade 3 rural schools

Abstract

This study aimed to describe the nature of teaching English as a second language in Grade 3 to inform language instruction. Pragmatism guided the study with Differentiated Instruction as the theoretical framework. A comparative case study, based on an embedded mixed method design, was used to observe three teachers in two remote primary schools. Qualitative data included non-participative classroom observations, face-to-face semi-structured interviews, and selected documents. Supportive quantitative data was collected by means of the Classroom Observation Schedule-Revised (CLOS-R) to determine the effective literacy instructional practices applied. Thematic analysis was guided by a-priori codes of effective teaching practices of English as a second language for academic purposes. Findings provide evidence-based descriptions of foundation phase teachers’ teaching of an additional language in two rural schools. They indicate that teachers managed the behaviour of learners and provide a predictable routine. However, the classroom was not used as a resource to promote literacy development through the physical arrangement or by creating opportunities for social interaction. Instructional practice did not appear purposeful and teachers lacked awareness of the learners’ needs. The teachers did not seem to have sufficient training or experience to teach English to Grade 3 learners. Their low level of English proficiency combined with a lack of resources to support language enrichment made it difficult for them to meet the learning challenges faced by rural learners. Language instruction seemed to focus on structure, compromising the development of the independent academic language skills needed to make the transition in Grade 4 to English as the Language of Learning and Teaching. They were thus unable to fully fulfil their role as a knowledge specialist and a learner expert. The results of this study are similar to findings in the literature (Fleisch, 2008).