Improving Young Learner�s Communication Skills Through English Extracurricular Activities

Yoedo, Yuli Christiana (2011) Improving Young Learner�s Communication Skills Through English Extracurricular Activities. In: The 2011 � International Seminar on Character Education, 15-12-2011 - 15-12-2011, Surabaya - Indonesia.

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Abstract

bstract Improving young learners� communication skills nowadays is not an easy job for teachers. The limitations of time and the obligation to finish certain materials really inhibit teachers� creativities. Besides, the materials might not be challenging for students. One effective way to resolve this problem is by providing English extracurricular activities. The reason is because teachers have more authority to choose the materials. This paper is focused on the printed materials to be used and the activities to be done during the process. Printed materials are used here because so far the English tests center on the reading comprehension. The writer offers materials, among others, brochures, recipes, folk tales, story books, comics, letters, posters, song lyrics communication games, children�s books, anecdotes, and magazines. The activities include predicting, previewing, role playing, practicing oral reading, giving presentation, retelling, active listening, acting, singing and poster making. The activities are individual, small group, pair work or all class activities. The materials and activities are suggested for the fifth grade students of Elementary School. The writer assumes that students at this level have mastered more vocabularies comparing to students of the lower levels. Besides, in general, school will give the fifth grade students a chance to get involved in extracurricular activities. The sixth grade students are not allowed to participate in any extracurricular activities anymore since they focus to study UNAS materials. Teachers should choose the materials and activities which are suitable for their students� levels of English proficiency. Ideally, one class consists of students with the same level of proficiency in order to get the maximum result. Theoretically, after discussing all the materials and doing all the activities, at least, students get two benefits. They do not only improve their communication skills but they also enjoy reading.

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