A Comparative Study of EFL Grammar Competence between the HSC and Alim Level Students in Bangladesh

Abstract: Each education level in Bangladesh places a high value on teaching English grammar as one of the most important language skills. This study compares the EFL grammar proficiency of Bangladeshi students studying in the Higher Secondary Certificate (HSC) program with that of the Alim level students. The researcher gathered test scripts of 50 HSC level students and 50 Alim level students in order to evaluate and determine whether the grammar lessons given by EFL teachers are more effective for HSC level students or Alim level students. The researcher employed ‘error analysis’ to examine grammatical errors in their writing, calculate how they affect English sentences, and determine how to fix or enhance performance. The researcher found that Bangladeshi students, both at the HSC and Alim levels, are not proficient in English grammar. The majority of students from HSC and Alim levels struggle to understand basics of English grammar like subject-verb agreement, tense usage etc. As grammar help writers express their thoughts clearly and persuasively while maintaining professionalism and credibility, the teachers as well as the students of both stream of education should work hard on this particular skill of English language. Keywords: EFL, grammar, competency, higher secondary certificate, Alim