Orthographic and grammatical errors_an investigation of the essay writings of upper primary pupils of Gyahadze MA primary school

Abstract

This is a qualitative study that examined orthographic and grammatical errors in the written essays of upper primary pupils of Gyahadze M/A Primary School. The instruments used for data collection were observation and test. From this, a total of 310 errors were identified. Six error types were identified on spelling, capitalization, punctuation, errors in the use of tense, errors in the use of articles and L1 transfer errors. Causes of these errors identified were from factors ranging from laziness and carelessness on the part of learners, overgeneralization of concepts and rules, teacher competence to inappropriate teaching methods among others. Based on the findings, some recommendations have been made; suggesting roles that various stakeholders can play as far as improving effective teaching and learning of the English Language in the basic schools is concerned.