Competencies in English Grammar of Grade 7 Students of Rinconada National Technical Vocational School

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

The Filipinos' use of the English language is deplorable because of grammatical incorrectness and inaccuracy. The only remedy for this dreadful use of the language will be for young Filipinos to learn correct English by means of a careful study of grammar rules and to realize that good command of English is greatly affected by one's knowledge of grammar rules and its effective application. Eventually, the students are expected to make meaningful use of the English language governed by rules and systems. This study aimed to determine the level of competence in English grammar of Grade 7 students of Rinconada National Technical Vocational School, Sto. Domingo, Iriga City before and after they used an enrichment material in the form of a workbook. Specifically, the study identified the level of competence, strengths, and weaknesses in grammar areas like parts of speech, morphology, and syntax.

METHODS

The descriptive method of research was used with a teacher-made test as a tool for gathering the data. Based on the results of the pretest, a workbook was developed. The respondents used this to master the rules of grammar. After the use of the workbook, the posttest was administered. Both the grammar test and enrichment material underwent validation process.

RESULTS

The findings showed that the students' level of competence in English grammar was poor. They marked low mastery of the grammar areas tested. To address these weaknesses, the researcher made an enrichment material in the form of a workbook covering the areas tested. It provided grammar concepts and exercises. The material improved considerably the competence in grammar as shown in the gain attained when the pretest and posttest results were compared. If the pretest recorded a low mastery performance level, the posttest graded as having achieved mastery level.

DISCUSSIONS

The students' alarming poor performance in grammar has affected school performance. With their little understanding of how grammar operates in the use of English as a language, they unsuccessfully communicate using this language. It is truly significant to give attention to making our learners realize and understand its role in communicating thoughts, feelings, desires and aspirations. It is also affirmed that proficiency in English grammar will benefit students to use the English language in daily communication, in their future career, and in life as a whole.