The code-switching and the speaking skill

Abstract

Code-Switching refers to the practice of alternating between two or more languages or varieties in a single conversation. This can happen within a single sentence, between sentences, or between longer stretches of discourse. The current investigation aims to identify the importance of using code-switching and the development of the speaking skill. The research had a quantitative approach and a correlational level of research. In order to carry out the research, the population included 22 students in total, 10 female and 12 males from the third level of Centro de Idiomas at Universidad Tecnológica Indoamérica. To obtain the data, a survey was applied, it contained 14 multiple choice questions, where 4 were about personal information and 10 were to have information related to Code-switching, based on the Likert scale. Besides, a standardized speaking test from Cambridge with 4 parts was used to analyze the speaking level of English of students. Finally, the findings demonstrated that students are familiar with CodeSwitching and they use it, which means that the use of Code-Switching is a good way to help to enhance the speaking skills during classes. Therefore, having the opportunity to use Spanish in English class has good impact in students’ confidence which then creates a good learning environment since students who have low level of English feel less overwhelmed.