Investigting the Role of Small Sized Classroom in Enhancing EFL Learners' Oral Performance - Case of study: First Year Pupils at Belhadj Dhaimi Middle School.

Abstract

work. Abstract The speaking skill is one of the important skills in studying English as a foreign language in which the student shows his/her knowledge using the oral capacities. However, there are different factors that impede them from being competent speakers; as the large classroom size. This paper investigates the relationship between small sized classrooms and students' oral performance and explores how small English classes facilitate foreign language learning especially the speaking skill by using different teaching methods and strategies special for those small sized classes. It is generally believed that smaller classes are more appropriate for teaching and learning speaking skill. A quantitative reasearch design was used in a sample of 20 middle school teachers aging between 25 and 55. Teachers filled out a background information sheet. The data was then analyzed to reveal that most teachers strongly agreed or agreed that smaller class size increase students' achievement in a variety of areas. Basing on literature findings and data generated, most participants agreed with the theory that smaller class size do enhance students' oral performance.