M’sian Teacher’s Incorrectly Marked English Goes Viral, Sparks Debate on Need to Learn English

When it comes to the country’s education system, there have been calls for reforms regarding the things that our younger generation need to learn and perhaps don’t need to.

However, a recent viral issue highlighted that perhaps, reforms should also be subjected to school teachers teaching English to students.

Recently, an image of what appeared to be an exercise book which was incorrectly marked on its English by a teacher went viral on social media. Although the original post is apparently from 2020, Twitter users brought it to the app to highlight the standard of English that’s being taught in schools.

Teachers with no experience in English are forced to teach it

The image sparked a debate amongst Twitter users with many stating that school teachers with no experience in English are often forced to teach the subject due to lack of staff.

“If you want someone to blame, blame the system.”

Ingat ya. Some teachers don't have background in TESL. These teachers are sometimes INSTRUCTED to teach English because most schools have shortages. If you want someone to blame, blame the system. https://t.co/u1aUDGrwCQ

— Najib Ismail (@najib_ismail) February 21, 2022

“Sometimes, the school has no choice but to fill in the role with any non major teacher,” commented one user.

One teacher who had experienced this personally said, “I was one of the ones who faced this. Luckily I had basic background and I never claimed to be an English teacher.”

Some users argued that every teacher must know basic English

Although some said that the blame is on the education system itself, others argued that every school teacher must know a bit of English.

“There is no need for TESL background for basic English like this. The root words are commonly used in our daily basis.”

One user commented, “It isn’t the teacher’s fault if they’re not from TESL background. But once they get the job, it’s their responsibility to equip themself with the right knowledge.”

“Even if you don’t have a background in TESL, the teacher should revise first before teaching,” said a user.

What do you think? Let us know in the comments.

Also read: A M’sian Teacher Strongly Advises Sex-Ed in Primary School After 16yo Gets Pregnant During MCO