Abstract:
The purposes of this study was to assess the classroom practices employed by EFL teachers in the teaching speaking skills .To conduct the study, mixed research approach was used. Classroom observation, questionnaire for students and interview for teachers were the major instruments used to collect data for the study. The sample of the study consisted of forty grade 9 students and three English language teachers. The students were selected using simple random sampling technique. A questionnaire consisting basic types of activities, techniques and strategies for learners; classroom observation for teachers and interview for teachers were administered between Januarys up to February, 2018. Data were analyzed using both quantitative and qualitative methods of data analysis. The close ended questionnaires were analyzed quantitatively using percentage. Class room observation and interview data were analyzed qualitatively. At the end both data forms were organized and presented thematically. The finding of the study revealed that speaking skills have not been practiced adequately. The study also revealed that teachers did not use activities, strategies and techniques effectively to improve students’ speaking skills. Furthermore, teachers failed to perform task in the process of teaching speaking. The teachers did not give sufficient amount of practices for students and did not create enough opportunities for students to use English (speaking) for authentic (real-life) communication. Thus, teachers should be involved in a reflective teaching practice with proper guidance and encouragement.
