English Language Speaking Skills

CHAPTER I

INTRODUCTION

A. Background of the Problem Language has a central role in the development of intellectual, social, and emotional learners. It supports the success in learning all fields of the study. Learning the language is expected to help learners to know them, their culture, and other cultures. In addition, learning language also helps learners able to express ideas and feelings, participate in society, and use an analytical and imaginative ability that was in theirs. According to Crystal (2001), English is a global language. It means that English is used by people in all over the world as a medium of communication. In addition, Crystal (1997) stated that English language spread and used nearly a quarter

Thus, the ability in speaking skill is a crucial and important part of second language learning and teaching process. The mastery of speaking skill in the English language is a priority for many second language or foreign language students. Even though periods of focusing on language form and enhance vocabulary are important in English language learning, but developing the students’ ability to really communicate with English in the classroom are the main goal of an English language teaching. At the end of the study, the students should be able to communicate effectively in English for study, work, and leisure outside the classroom. Therefore, it is essential that English teachers pay great attention in teaching speaking to the students. It is useful because the ability to communicate with foreign language, especially English clearly and efficiently contributes to the success of the students at school and success later in every period of students’

On this occasion, the teacher should create an enjoyable and exciting atmosphere in teaching speaking at the elementary school so that students will not be afraid to admit their mistakes and will receive criticism. One of the ways to solve the problems of young learners in learning speaking is by using games. This media can help the students to develop their ability. Based on Piaget and Vygotsky theory, the child or young learners are an active, thinker, and social learner. They love learning by playing with other friends. One of the media to teach speaking to create fun learning is through games. The writer will focus on using one of the traditional games as one of a natural and fun way in teaching speaking namely hopscotch game. By using hopscotch game, it is hoped that the students will have high motivation and be able to practice speaking English effectively. Thus, the writer is interested in discussing the use of hopscotch games to teach speaking to young learners in writing of this paper.

D. Formulation of the Problem Based on the explanation above, the problem is formulated as follows: “How does the teacher use Hopscotch game in teaching speaking for young learners?”

E. Purpose of the