Using Correct Prepositions of Time to Enliven ESL Learners’ Communication Skill

Abstract

Learning to speak English as a second language means learning to say it properly-fluently and grammatically correct. When learning it, people tend to know not only its bunch of the vocabularies but also how to use those words in a communication. In related to using the appropriate words inappropriate sentences and exercises, mastering the knowledge of prepositions can enrich the communication in English. This research will analyze how Indonesian learners of English as a foreign language (EFL) find difficulties in using prepositions, especially prepositions of time: in, on, and at. The use of prepositions of time in sentences is very important and significantly influenced the meaning of the words. The research will be based on the working of metafunctions: ideational, interpersonal, and textual. Based on the literature of Azar (1992) about prepositions of time, it is defined the use of in, on, and at which is to bring time into focus, get people to see the future, persuade them to prepare, change their actions, and so forth. This knowledge is in principle significantly taught to all EFL learners; hence, to adult ones. The results showed that more than 75% of learners still use the wrong prepositions of time.