Afifa Hanif

A Critical Study of English Language Teaching Methods in the Single National Curriculum (2020) for Primary Level in Pakistan

Introduction

A critical study of english language teaching methods in the single national curriculum (2020) for primary level in pakistan . Critically examine English Language Teaching (ELT) methods in Pakistan's Single National Curriculum (SNC) 2020 for primary levels. Identifies gaps and suggests refinements for language acquisition.

Abstract

This research critically investigates English Language Teaching methods and practices employed within the framework of the Single National Curriculum (SNC) 2020, focusing on the primary grade level. This study aims to assess the efficacy of these methods in enhancing language acquisition among students in grades I-V and in achieving the broader goals of educational equity and standardization across the country. This research also evaluates the alignment of the Single National Curriculum with internationally recognized English Language Teaching frameworks to examine whether it equips students to meet global language competency standards. The findings of the study reveal that although the Single National Curriculum marks a significant advancement in standardizing English language education in Pakistan, there are critical gaps that need to be addressed. These include inconsistencies in teaching practices, especially in public schools, insufficient focus on essential language skills such as listening, and inadequate attention to teacher development opportunities. This research also delves into these practical challenges faced by teachers in implementing the curriculum in classrooms namely, resource constraints, lack of professional development, limited time, and the need for curriculum adaptation to local and global contexts. The study concludes that for the Single National Curriculum to fully realize its potential, there must be ongoing curriculum refinement, enhanced teacher training, and the development of more contextually relevant educational resources. These steps are essential for aligning the Single National Curriculum more closely with international English Language Teaching standards and for ensuring that it effectively meets the diverse needs of Pakistan’s primary school students, thereby fostering a more globally competitive and equitable education system.

Review

This research provides a timely and critical examination of English Language Teaching (ELT) methods within Pakistan's Single National Curriculum (SNC) 2020, specifically for the primary grade level. The study's focus on assessing the efficacy of these methods in enhancing language acquisition, alongside their contribution to educational equity and standardization, is highly pertinent. Furthermore, its evaluation of the SNC's alignment with international ELT frameworks to ensure global competency standards underscores a crucial aspect of modern educational reform. The paper sets out with clear objectives, addressing significant concerns about curriculum implementation and its real-world impact on young learners in a large and diverse educational landscape. The findings of the study offer a balanced perspective, acknowledging the SNC 2020 as a significant step forward in standardizing English language education across Pakistan. However, it critically uncovers several vital gaps that hinder its full potential. These include pronounced inconsistencies in teaching practices, particularly within public schools, and an insufficient emphasis on foundational language skills such as listening. A notable concern raised is the inadequate attention paid to teacher development opportunities, which directly impacts the quality of instruction. The research also thoroughly details the practical challenges encountered by teachers on the ground, ranging from resource constraints and a lack of professional development to limited instructional time and the pressing need for curriculum adaptation to both local and global contexts. In light of these findings, the study concludes with actionable recommendations crucial for the SNC 2020 to achieve its ambitious goals. It advocates for ongoing curriculum refinement, significantly enhanced teacher training programs, and the development of more contextually relevant educational resources. These proposed steps are positioned as essential not only for aligning the SNC more closely with internationally recognized ELT standards but also for effectively addressing the diverse needs of Pakistan's primary school students. Ultimately, the research emphasizes that such comprehensive and continuous efforts are indispensable for fostering a globally competitive and equitable education system within the country, making a strong case for sustained policy attention and resource allocation.

Full Text

Comments

You need to be logged in to post a comment.