Play And English Language Development of Pre-schoolers in Western Kenya, Kakamega County, Kakamega East District.

ABSTRACT This study experimented on play and English language development of pre scholars in three schools. These were Khayega DEB primary, Museno primary, and Mugomari primary, all in Kakamega county. In particular, this empirical research determined further the following; 1. Profile of students as to age and gender 2. The mean scores in the pre-test and post-test. 3. Significant difference between pre-test and post-test mean scores. 4. Significant main gain. The study employed a quasi experimental design, specifically the pre-test and post-test technique. Target population of two hundred and seventy students from which a total of fifty four students (all from class one) were sampled and were respondents. The statistical parameters utilized were the frequency and percentage distribution for the profile of students. The mean score of the pre test and post-test were determined. The finding of the study was as follows; There was a significant difference in mean scores of the pre-test and post-test in the all three schools. It was concluded that play as a method of teaching had positive impact on the performance of learners in language development. Basing on the findings of this study, impotence of play as a teaching method was validated beyond reasonable doubt. Key recommendations included; 1. Demand for increase of play time for children both at school and home. 2. Further research to be done to cotructuct more plays and modify traditional play to impress on technology changes in our life time.