English Language Problems

1) INTRODUCTION

English is the first foreign language to be taught at school in Indonesia. The government has decided that English becomes one of the compulsory subjects at junior high school, senior high school, and the university. However, English has also taught in private elementary school as local content. In fact, the introduction of English in primary schools is very important. Based on the introduction of English in primary schools, the students will recognize and know the language early. Therefore, they will have a better knowledge base before proceeding to higher education level. It means that to build capabilities that are useful in order to prepare graduates to learn English in Junior High School.

Teaching English is not easy for young learners. In young learners’ class, especially elementary school students, teachers usually find problems in teaching this subject. In general, their problems were related to low motivation, boring with learning, bad study habit, and bad attitudes toward learning. However, external factors, such as the classroom condition also impeded them in learning English. Most of the students had problems in learning English language skills especially speaking. In general, the problems of students related to learning to speak can be divided into four main groups: First, students feel shy to speak English. Second, students often use their native language. Third, students don’t have adequate information on the subjects discussed. Fourth,