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The Effect of Patois English on Students Academic Performance in English Language Among Secondary Schools in Port Harcourt

Beauty Onyekachi Garricks, Prof. Michael Alozie Nwala, Prof. Daniel Ogum, Prof. Ibiere Ken-Maduako

Abstract

The study examined the Effect of Patois English on students’ academic performance in English Language among secondary schools in Port Harcourt, Nigeria. Language is central to education, and in Nigeria, English serves as the official language of instruction and communication. However, the increasing use of Nigerian Patois English among students has raised concerns about its possible interference with proficiency in Standard English. The objectives of the study were to determine the extent to which students use Patois English, examine its effect on English Language performance, assess teachers’ perceptions, and identify strategies to reduce its negative influence. The study adopted a descriptive survey design, and data were collected through a structured questionnaire administered to students and teachers across selected public and private secondary schools in Port Harcourt. A sample size of 200 respondents was selected using stratified random sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and Chi-square test of significance. Findings revealed that students frequently use Patois English, particularly in informal settings, and this usage has a negative Effect on their mastery of Standard English. Errors in grammar, vocabulary, and spelling were common among students who heavily relied on Patois English. Teachers perceived Patois English as a barrier to academic excellence, though a few recognized its role in facilitating communication. The study recommended promoting Standard English through school policies, competitions, and parental involvement, as well as enhancing teacher training in addressing language interference. The research contributes to the discourse on language use, bilingualism, and educational outcomes in Nigeria.

References

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