English Language Proficiency among Secondary School Students in Adoni Division of Andhra Pradesh: An Empirical Study using ELPT-MKDR

Abstract

English language proficiency plays a pivotal role in determining academic success and enhancing employability prospects, particularly in multilingual societies such as India. This study examines the English language proficiency levels of secondary school students in the Adoni Division of Andhra Pradesh using the standardized English Language Proficiency Test (ELPT-MKDR). Adopting a descriptive survey design, the study utilized both descriptive and inferential statistical methods to analyze the data. A sample of 300 students was selected through stratified random sampling from government and private schools located in both rural and urban areas. The ELPT-MKDR, comprising 56 items distributed across three sections and fourteen content domains, was administered under standardized testing conditions. Data analysis involved the computation of mean scores, standard deviations, independent samples t-tests, and correlation coefficients. The results revealed that most students demonstrated a moderate level of English language proficiency. Significant differences were observed with respect to school location (rural–urban) and school management (government–private). Furthermore, the findings indicate a disparity between students’ grammatical competence and their ability to use English effectively in communicative contexts. The study underscores the need for pedagogical interventions and curriculum reforms aimed at strengthening communicative language competence and improving overall English language proficiency among secondary school learners.