ABSTRACT
This study examines the influence of phonetic instruction on pronunciation proficiency in primary schools in Oredo local government, Benin city. This study was carried out in Five (5) primary schools in Oredo Local Government, Edo State.
In order to provide direction for the study, six(6) research questions were raised. The research instrument used in generating data for the study was the questionnaire. The questionnaire was administered to the fifty (50) teachers across the five (5) primary schools in Oredo Local government, Edo State. The data collected from the respondents were analyzed with the use of tables and simple percentages.
From the analysis, it was discovered that a significant number of teachers agreed that the use of phonetic drills, technologies , educational apps and other phonetic Instruction resources is effective for achieving correct pronunciation habits among pupils. Secondly, the study pointed out that the consistent professional training of teachers will greatly influence the pupils' pronunciation positively . Thirdly, it was discovered that the influence of phonetic instruction on pupils' pronunciation proficiency depends on their cognitive development. It was also discovered that the involvement of non academic bodies, such as the parents, will greatly influence the pupils' pronunciation proficiency and assist teachers in their drive to achieve the goal (pronunciation proficiency). Finally, this research indicated the major challenges in ensuring pronunciation proficiency which includes the native language interference, cognitive development of pupils and a host of others which hinders learning.
