An Enquiry into the Deteriorating State of The Use of English Language in Secondary Schools: A Study of Selected Schools in Jos North L.G.A of Plateau State

This study looked at the factors responsible for the deteriorating state of the use of English language, problems and challenges of the use of English language within the Nigerian educational context. The data for the study were drawn from a questionnaire administered to teachers of English in selected schools within Jos North Local Government of Plateau State. The study found that factors such as total absence of reading culture among students, parent's negative disposition to children's academic needs and unavailability of libraries and study facilities in schools  and at home are contributory factors for the deterioration in the use of English language. Based on the findings, it was concluded that some measure of attention should be given to sociolinguistic aspects of the language. The study recommended that language experts in collaboration with curriculum planners should strategize on how to improve the standard of the English language. Other issues to be considered are the need to recruit qualified teachers; cancellation examination magic centres and ‘fat' salaries should be given to teachers so as to curb corruption and other indecent activities.