CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

Background of the Study

The English language is the native language of the British. Its use in Nigeria is one of the aftermaths of the colonization of Nigeria by Britain. According to Otagburuagu (2002), the English Language is one of the important legacies Nigeria inherited from the British. So, the teaching and learning of the English language dates back to the early days of British colonization efforts and the introduction of Western Education by the early Christian Missionaries. The adoption of the English language as an official language in Nigeria dates back to 1842. Azikiwe (1998) states that the English Language was introduced in Nigeria in 1842 by the first batch of missionaries who arrived in Badagry for education and evangelization.

In Nigeria, the English language is the medium of communication. According to Otagburuagu (2002), the national language dilemma makes it necessary that English is used for inter- ethnic communication. The English language is a binding force in the Nigerian society. It is the language of administration, government, judiciary, science and technology, among others.

The English language occupies a central position in the school system. It is a core subject, which is required for admission into higher institutions and for occupations and employment. The Federal Republic of Nigeria (FRN); (2007) recognizes the importance of the English language and made its study compulsory in primary and secondary schools through out the federation. According to this policy, from primary four to tertiary institution, English shall be progressively used as a medium of instruction at these levels of education. In line with this, the examination boards such as WAEC, NECO and JAMB made the English Language a core subject in their examinations. Ufomata (2005) re-emphasized that in education, English is introduced as a core subject from the first year in primary schools and used as a medium of instruction from primary four through secondary and tertiary education. As a result, the teaching and learning of the English language has been on the increase.

1. 1. This material content is developed to serve as a GUIDE for students to conduct academic research work
2. 2. As a source for additional understanding of the subject.
3. 3. As a source for ideas for your own research work (if properly referenced).
4. 4. For PROPER paraphrasing (see your university definition of plagiarism and acceptable paraphrase)
5. 5. Direct citing (if referenced properly)
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