An Analysis of Language Input in EFL Classrooms at Junior High Schools in Padang

Abstract

This research-based paper presents the investigation on 1) the realization of verbal classroom interaction, 2) teacher language use and 3) teacher‟s perception on their language choice in classroom interaction. Employing a qualitative research design and case study approach, the data for this study were collected through classroom observations and stimulated recall interviews with teachers. The data were collected in a classroom context where the participants were English teachers and their students at the junior high schools in Padang. The analysis showed very diverse patterns of target language use among teachers, and revealed that Bahasa Minang/Bahasa Indonesia and English were used in complex ways. The findings revealed that all of the teacher switch code from the target language to mother tongue; however, sometimes these teachers did not realize when, and why they codeswitch. In addition, the findings also showed that the teacher mostly adopted a role as controller in the classroom as they frequently led the flow of interaction. This complex picture of language use in the classroom needs to be better understood in order to improve the language-teaching curriculum.