FACTORS INFLUENCING ENGLISH LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY OF ORDINARY LEVEL STUDENTS (WITH SPECIAL REFERENCE TO SELECTED SCHOOLS IN GAMPAHA DISTRICT)

Abstract

English proficiency of the majority of Sri Lankan Ordinary Level students is not at a satisfactory level for many years. According to the latest government statistics, 34.22 percent of students have failed English as a subject in the G.C.E. Examination and this happens every year. Therefore, this study is significant as it aims to identify the factors (socio economic, psychological,linguistic factors and teaching strategies) influencing English language proficiency of O/L students with special reference to Gampaha district. According to the outcomes of the study, it reflects that each factor (socio economic, psychological, linguistic factors) has a significant, strong positive relationship with English language proficiency and the learners’ exposure,level of motivation, the teaching strategies received by the learner have an impact on learners’ English language competency. Therefore, this study provides recommendations, specially, for the relevant parties; institutions and government to implement effective solutions.