It is pertinent to observe that the vagaries of the English language grammar constitute a major problem in the teaching and learning of English in a second language situation like Nigeria. The inherent structural irregularities within the English language have made it difficult for users and learners of English to grapple with the unconventional…

The serial verb construction (SVC) in Edo (Bini), a language spoken in Nigeria, is examined, and an analysis that systematically characterizes the notion of functional relationship of verbs within these constructions is proposed. It is argued that the verbs in series are sensitive to different semantic and grammatical phenomena and are therefore…

A discussion of Bolanci (also Bole or Bolewa), a West Chadic language spoken in northeastern Nigeria, focuses on one component of the system of complementation, the form "na." This form has an inherent semantic capable of influencing the meaning of sentences in which it is embedded, specifically, when present in a complex sentence,…

Semantic noun classes in Emai, an Edoid language of Nigeria, are examined with respect to a process of Reference Point Marking (RPM) in order to explore the relationship between discourse and lexical semantics. Across pre- and post-verbal positions subcategorized by verbs like "rere" ("to be far"), these classes are shown to…

Discusses the teaching of English as a second language (ESL) to Islamic students finishing their secondary education to enable them to read, with reasonable speed and comprehension, texts in their special subject areas. Gives specific teaching strategies that can be applied to normal ESL instruction. (EKN)

This guide is designed for Zarma language training of Peace Corps workers in agriculture in Nigeria, and reflects daily communication needs in that context. An introductory section provides background information on the program's objectives and its role in the Nigerian village context. Some useful phrases are introduced here. Subsequent sections…