Difficulties Encountered in English Subject of Some General Academic Strand Students in Bestlink College of the Philippines, Novaliches Campus School Year 2018 -2019

Abstract

English is one of the most important subjects that a person could learn in school. Without English, a person cannot communicate effectively with the English speaking nation. The researchers conducted this study to know the difficulties encountered by some General Academic Strand (GAS) students in their English subject and to find solutions to address the said problem. This research used the descriptive research design in such a way that the survey questionnaire was administered to fifty (50) selected General Academic Strand students that were chosen purposively. The survey questionnaire was constructed to determine how pronunciation, grammar construction, and reading comprehension assess the level of difficulties in the English subject of the students. Moreover, Sleator stated in her theory entitled "Grammatical Theory and Practice in English Class" that in teaching English grammar in college courses, professors should think that future teachers of English might have no previous training in linguistics and grammar. This theory was utilized in this study. The data collected were analyzed qualitatively. Many respondents agreed that there were difficulties in learning English. Students responded that experiencing mental block in interpreting words was one of the most common factors that affect them in terms of pronunciation. In grammar construction, respondents emphasized that they have limited knowledge in English grammar. Lastly, the most common factor that affects the students in terms of reading comprehension, is that they could not understand the text right away due to the appearance of unfamiliar words. These recommendations were given regarding the difficulties of learning English encountered by students: students should have a desire to learning English; teachers should encourage their students to learn different areas of English, particularly with the pronunciation, vocabulary, and uses of grammar; lastly, teachers should engage the students in different activities that would help them develop their knowledge in English.