Pronunciation errors in English among Sri Lankan school children

Abstract

The aim of this research is to figure out pronunciation errors of English among school children. The significance of this research is identifying the common pronunciation errors made by Sri Lankan school children and finding resolutions to overcome those errors. In the past researchers have investigated on this matter with a common perspective in mind. A necessity was identified to conduct a research on the pronunciation errors in the English language among Sri Lankan school children. In this research, errors made by Sri Lankan school children who speak English as a second language were detected. A group of students from a reputed school in a suburb of Colombo were selected as the participants. Questionnaires were given to them in order to identify errors. According to the research, the students who have a broader exposure to English outside the school make fewer mistakes. The results suggest that the students tend to make pronunciation errors due to the influence of their mother tongue. It can be concluded that proper guidance and constant practice should be provided for the school children to improve the clarity of their English language pronunciation.