Teaching Productive Skills to the Students: a secondary Level Scenario

2.6.2 Importance of Speaking 
Although not a set curriculum is there in most educational institutions, speaking 
skills have been found to be a fundamental 
skill necessary for a learner‟s success in life. 
Learners often evaluate their success in language learning on the basis of how well they 
feel they have improved in their spoken language proficiency. Matin claims (2011:p.237) 
someone‟s fluency in speaking measures his/ her proficiency in that language. 
Students having ability to translate their thoughts and ideas into words are found 
to be more successful in school. Without developing good speaking skills, students has 
to suffer lifelong consequences because of their inability (Wilson 1997; in Smith, 2003: 
p.3). Ability of speaking English also plays an important role in developing reading and 
writing skills. As Rivers says, when we read and write, we use what we know of the 
language orally (1968: p.20). 
Speaking skill is required everywhere, from simple conversation to formal public 
speaking. As Wilson (1997: p.9) argues, talking can be used to connect with others, 
explore and understand the world and reveal oneself. 

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In Bangladesh‟s perspectives, fluency in speaking English is needed for 
professional purpose a lot; like doing international business, diplomatic jobs and for 
higher studies (Matin, 2011: p.237). Young generation aspires professional careers in 
English dominant communities where most required qualities of candidates are 
presentation skills and fluency in speaking. Also after completing Higher Secondary 
education, at the tertiary level, especially at universities, students are encouraged to 
communicate in English and most of the lectures are delivered in English. Besides 
students who are going abroad for pursuing higher studies or for earning livelihood, 
ability to speaking fluently is considered most advanced facility for them (Matin, 2011: 
p.238).