INFLUENCE OF ENGLISH LANGUAGE; A SECOND LANGUAGE ON THE MASTERY AND FLUENT USE OF OUR MOTHER LANGUAGE AMONG UNIVERSITY OF BENIN UNDERGRADUATES

ABSTRACT

 The main purpose of this study is to investigate the influence of English Language; a second Language on the mastery and fluent use of our Mother Languages among University of Benin Undergraduates. During the course of this study, four research questions were raised to guide the study.

 The study adopted a descriptive research design; the two point rating scale was used for data collection. The instrument was validated and administered to One Hundred students from selected department in the University of Benin. Data from the questionnaire we're presented in tables and we're analysed in simple percentage.

 The findings of the study revealed that: Students rarely use their mother Tongue as a means of communication among their peers. Some young undergraduates do not understand their Mother Tongue. Some do understand but can not fluently speak. The use of Mother Tongue is appropriate. Few will understand better if taught in there Mother Tongue. There is mix of Mother Tongue and English for those who understand and use their Mother Tongue.

 Based on the findings of this work the following recommendations are made: Policy makes should work alongside educational planners and administrators to formulate and implement policies that will ensure that the existing policies on Mother Tongue learning and usage are strictly adhere to. Government should ensure the enforcement and standardization of Mother Tongue in various Stages of learning in the country in other to make it gain the prestige that it deserves. Written materials in and on Mother Tongue should be encouraged since it is the first means of identifying one's identify and heritage. Educators should ensure that Mother Tongue is used in learning as an instructional medium in classrooms alongside English.