Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to assess the challenges to use English as a medium of
instruction in natural science classes of Adama Preparatory Schools. The study was
conducted to find out the challenges that the teachers face while they are using English
as a medium of instruction, to identify the causes of this challenges and to see what the
teachers employ to solve this challenges. To achieve the purpose of the study, a
descriptive survey study research design that includes both qualitative and quantitative
approach were used. For this 27 grade 11 teachers were involved. The teachers were
selected using random sampling technique. The instruments used to collect the data
were questionnaires, interviews and classroom observation. The data were analyzed by
using both quantitative and qualitative data analysis methods. Quantitative data were
analyzed using simple descriptive statistics and qualitative data were interpreted,
summarized and added to the quantitative data to support the data. Finally, the data
were integrated to create the holistic picture of the study. The result showed that the
existence of problems related to teachers, such as poor back ground of language
proficiency or experience, lack of pedagogical training, problems of implementing
different strategies, lack of confidence in using English, lack of basic language skill,
and having limited vocabulary etc. The findings also revealed the problems related to
teachers such as, teachers beliefs about using English learning and teaching process,
teachers methodology of teaching. Because of findings, it was recommended that in
order to improve the teachers abilities in using English as a medium of instruction,
above all, teachers have to practice teaching in English with their collogues and share
experience among themselves. The teachers teaching methodology should be changed
from teacher-centered to student-centered. On the other hand, to enhance teachers
using English ability, science teachers have to play their appropriate role
