Factors contributing to pupils’ poor performance in literature in english.
Date
2020-03
Authors
Mubita, Eddie Sing’alamba
Mwanza, David Sani
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
International Journal of Humanities Social Sciences and Education (IJHSSE)
Abstract
Literature in English is a beneficial subject to learners who take it. Unfortunately, the performance
of learners in the subject in Western Province of Zambia has remained poor as evidenced by successive
Examination Council of Zambia (ECZ) and chief markers performance reports. This article discusses the
importance of literature and methods used in teaching it. It also presents the findings of a study which sought
to establish the factors contributing to the poor performance of learners in the subject in relation to
motivation. A study qualitative design was used employing a case study strategy of inquiry. 150 participants
comprising 10 Heads of Literature and Language departments, 20 teachers of Literature, 100 Grade 12
learners of literature and 20 former learners who failed the subject were recruited for the study using
purposive and snowball sampling techniques. The study established that teachers and learners faced a
number of challenges such as inadequate teacher preparation, use of inappropriate techniques, negative
attitudes and lack of teaching and learning resources. The study also established that motivation was a major
factor. Arising from the findings, the study recommended retraining of teachers through CPD in order to
build their capacity in the teaching of Literature in English
Description
Article
Keywords
Zambia , Factors , Pupils , Literature in English , Examination , Performance , Teachers