Abstract:
In a technologically driven world, the government, with the consultation of responsible authorities has
been adopting numerous methods in improving the English language proficiency of its citizens,
especially the undergraduates. Despite its initiatives, it has been observed that the number of Level 1
(Beginner’s Level) students has been increasing over the past few years, especially in the Faculties of
Arts and Management.
This research was conducted in relation to the writing difficulties of Level 1 students in the Faculty of
Management and Finance, University of Colombo. Level 1 students were selected since their
situation in this Faculty is very serious as the medium of instruction in this Faculty is English. Writing
difficulties were selected as worthy of investigation since writing is frequently observed as a difficult
skill for any language user. As Richards (1990:100) states, “…learning to write in either a first or
second language is one of the most difficult tasks a learner encounters and one that few people can be
said to fully master.”
In conducting this research a placement test was administered for the first year undergraduates
(2011/2012 batch) to identify Level 1 students. The sample was selected through disproportionate
stratified random sampling. Their writing difficulties were identified through the answer scripts.
Incorporating their difficulties a Remedial English program was designed and conducted. At the end
of the course a post test was given. Further, questionnaires were administered to students, subject
experts and English teachers.
The post test given at the end of the Remedial English program showed that 88% of students in the
selected sample have improved their writing skills. This program benefitted the students with the
lowest proficiency level of English. However, there is still a long way for them to go to achieve
language fluency. Therefore, throughout their academic career they should be constantly supported
and guided in order to empower them with English language proficiency in an environment in which
English plays a key role.
