Abstract:
The purpose of this study was to assess challenges of the implementation of continuous
assessment in speaking skill with reference to EFL teachers at Awash Melka, Jawwee and
Tefki grade 10 and 11 students. For this study descriptive survey research design was
employed, and in trying to address these issues which include both qualitative and
quantitative research methods were used. Thus, nine EFL teachers were availability selected
whereas 95 students were selected employing a systematic random sampling technique from
three schools. These samples were taken from the whole population that is 950 grades 10 and
11 students of 2014 in the mentioned school. All grade 10 and 11 English teachers (i.e. nine
in number) were taken as a sample for the study. The researcher used Questionnaire,
interview and classroom observation as data gathering tools in the study. Questionnaire and
interview were used for both teachers and students while for classroom observation was used
only for teachers. As to the findings, the study illustrated that EFL teachers had a good
awareness of COSA and positive attitude towards it; but they encountered challenges in the
implementation of this procedure. Hence, the findings showed that students lack of verbal
English proficiency, lack of interest, low-level motivation, and negligence of authentic or real
life speaking skills to complete the given tasks. Moreover, fear towards national
examinations, ample time given for grammar-focused instructions, teachers‟ lack of practical
skills for practical implementation of COSA, large class size, time constraints, the time given
for task in the textbook and in the teacher’s guide does not match, EFL teachers’ heavy
workload (20-25 periods in a week) and focus given to cover vast portions were also found to
be other impediments towards students’ development of oral communication skills. Finally,
recommendations were put forward for EFL teachers based on the findings of the study that
are meant to create a sense of accountability of this assessment problem
