EBONYI JOURNAL OF LANGUAGE
EJLLS Publication
EJLLS| Title: | Developing Oral Proficiency in Second Language Learning: Importance, Barriers and Solutions |
| Author(s): | Ozioma J. OKEY-KALU |
| Abstract: | Second language learning is the process by which people learn a second language. For the language learner to be considered proficient in the target language, he has to show a great level of proficiency in the four language skills – listening, speaking, reading and writing. Speaking is an act of oral or verbal communication. It is the first means of communication open to any language user. Proficiency in speaking skills is important to a second or foreign language learner because speaking is the most frequently used means of communication, without which the language user may be unable to express himself. Proficiency in speaking skills also gives the language learner confidence in the use of the target language as well as creates room for his academic and career success. Learners of second language face a lot of obstacles while struggling to perfect on their oral communication. This paper looks into some of the importance of speaking skills to a language user and enumerates some of the barriers to oral proficiency in second language learning. It then went further to suggest a number of ways language learners can overcome these obstacles and attain proficiency in speaking skills in the target language. |
| Keywords: | second language learning, importance of speaking skills, barriers to oral proficiency, improving on |
