EVALUATING THE EFFECTIVENESS OF ‘NEW CONCEPT ENGLISH TEXTBOOK’ ON THE PERFORMANCE OF SENIOR SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS IN AKURE-NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA IN ONDO STATE.

ABSTRACT This study evaluates the Effectiveness of New Concept English Textbook on the Performance of Senior Secondary School Students in Akure-North Local Government Area of Ondo State” examined the extent to which the textbook contributed to students’ performance in English. The problem motivating the study was the persistent poor performance of students in English language despite the availability of recommended textbooks. The objectives of the study were to evaluate the effectiveness of the New Concept English textbook in improving students’ grammar and vocabulary, reading comprehension, writing ability, and oral English communication skills. The study adopted a descriptive survey research design. The population comprised all Senior Secondary School students in Akure-North Local Government Area, from which a sample of 100 students was randomly selected. A structured questionnaire designed on a four-point Likert scale was used to collect data, while the responses were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, mean, and decision rules. The findings revealed that the New Concept English textbook had a significant positive effect on students’ grammar and vocabulary acquisition, as well as moderate impact on their reading comprehension and writing skills. However, the study also showed that the textbook was less effective in enhancing oral English skills, particularly in pronunciation, fluency, and speaking confidence. It was concluded that while the New Concept English textbook remains an effective tool for improving grammar, vocabulary, reading, and writing, it is insufficient for developing oral communication skills. The study recommended that teachers should supplement the textbook with oral drills, debates, role plays, and interactive activities. Furthermore, educational stakeholders should review and update the textbook to ensure balanced coverage of all aspects of language learning. Keywords: New Concept English, grammar, vocabulary, reading comprehension, writing skills, oral communication, senior secondary students.