ANALYSIS OF SPELLING ERRORS IN STUDENTS’ ESSAYS: A CASE STUDY OF LAMBOYA MODEL JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL IN THE BAWKU WEST DISTRICT OF THE UPPER EAST REGION

ABSTRACT This study investigated spelling errors committed by students of Lamboya Junior High School in the Bawku West District, who are learning English language (L2) as a core subject. The study examined written essays of 84 students who were in form three (3) and preparing for their Basic Education Certificate Examination. And so, the test instrument for the study was their mock exam. The rationale for using the form 3 students and the mock exam was that the students might have mastered to some extent, the spellings of words, and would write the mock with seriousness. The study revealed the students committed seven types of spelling errors in their essays. These include letter omission, letter addition, letter substitution, letters transposition, multiple letters errors, L1- Induced and apostrophe errors. The findings showed that letter omission spelling errors was the most frequent type of errors the student committed. L1 induced errors which were perceived to be high due to the way students pronounce words, were rather the least frequent in the students’ essays. The study also revealed the causes and effects of spelling errors which has implications to all stakeholders in education, especially teachers. The study of spelling errors will help teachers to device strategies that will improve students spelling abilities. The study recommends the need for future research into the area to help improve students written communication skills. Key words: spelling mistakes, spelling errors,