Science Tests Using English Language and Mother-Tongue

SUMMARY

EXISTING KNOWLEDGE

1. Language as a Medium of Instruction: Previous studies have shown that the language used for instruction can significantly impact students’ academic performance, particularly in subjects like science that involve technical terminology.

2. Mother Tongue-Based Education: Research supports the idea that students, especially in early grades, perform better when taught in their mother tongue, as it enhances comprehension and engagement.

3. English as a Global Language: Despite the advantages of mother-tongue instruction, English is often the preferred language in science education due to its status as the global language of science and technology.

NEW INSIGHTS FROM THIS STUDY

1. Performance Gap Between Languages: The study finds that Grade IV pupils performed better in science tests when the questions were administered in their mother tongue compared to English. This suggests that language barriers in English may hinder understanding of scientific concepts.

2. Mother Tongue Improves Conceptual Understanding: Pupils showed deeper conceptual understanding when tested in their native language,

3.  allowing them to grasp and explain scientific ideas more effectively than in English.

4. English Proficiency Affects Science Performance: The study highlights that students with higher English proficiency performed relatively well in both languages, but those with lower proficiency struggled significantly in English-language science tests.

PUTTING RESEARCH INTO PRACTICE

1. Integrate Mother Tongue in Early Science Education: Use the mother tongue as the medium of instruction for foundational science lessons to promote better comprehension and retention of key concepts.

2. Progressive Introduction of English: Gradually introduce English in higher grades, ensuring students have a strong conceptual understanding before transitioning to a more English-centric curriculum.

3. Language Support for Science Learning: Provide language support programs aimed at improving students’ proficiency in English, particularly focusing on scientific vocabulary and reading comprehension skills.

REFERENCE: 

Article Title: Performance of the Grade IV Pupils in Science Tests Using English Language and Mother-Tongue. Authors: . John Carlo A. Foraque, and Susan S. Janer. ka Shange

Journal: United International Journal for Research & Technology Year: 2024