TEACHING SCIENCE TO STUDENTS LEARNING ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (ESL): THE ROLE OF SCIENCE TEACHERS IN ENGLISH LANGUAGE TEACHING

Abstract

Abstract There is no denying that science is an important subject that can be taught to children. It helps them develop scientific skills and attitude early in life. However, one of the problems confronting effective teaching of science is learning the language of science. It holds that teachers of science usually find it difficult to teach science effectively due to language barrier. This is not only due to the presence of first language but also due to the status of the English language as a second language. Science teachers jettison learning and use English at the detriment of their students. The paper thus explains the role of science teachers in ensuring effective use of language by themselves and inculcating same in the students. This, it is believed, will help to enhance efficient teaching of science. It is recommended that teachers of science acquire basic English; spellings, grammar, registers, pronunciations, etc. to strengthen their performance thereby helping the students.

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