Abstract: English Language Learners (ELLs) face challenges that extend beyond vocabulary and grammar to include classroom participation, anxiety, social interaction, confidence, and access to appropriate support. This qualitative phenomenological study explored the lived experiences of 20 Grade 7 English Language Learners from Bicos National High School in Rizal District, Schools Division of Nueva Ecija. Participants were purposively selected from four Grade 7 sections based on their English performance and verified experiences of linguistic and social challenges. Data were gathered primarily through semi-structured interviews and supplemented by reflective journals. The interview guide underwent expert validation using the Content Validity Index, with the study reporting an I-CVI and S-CVI/Ave of 1.00. Data were analyzed through thematic narrative analysis guided by Braun and Clarke's six-phase framework, with triangulation, member checking, and peer debriefing used to strengthen trustworthiness. Findings showed that learners experienced difficulties in vocabulary, grammar, comprehension, reading, writing, pronunciation, and oral communication, often accompanied by nervousness, shyness, and fear of mistakes. At the same time, learners demonstrated resilience through persistence, independent learning, help-seeking, personal motivation, peer and family support, and recognition of gradual progress. The findings further indicated that supportive teachers, respectful peer relationships, scaffolding, meaningful practice, constructive feedback, and psychologically safe classrooms can strengthen confidence and participation. The study concludes that responsive English instruction should address learners' linguistic, emotional, social, and motivational needs through differentiated and scaffolded practices.
Keywords: English Language Learners; lived experiences; phenomenology; resilience; self-efficacy; language anxiety; responsive instruction.
Title: The Untold Stories of English Language Learners in Navigating Linguistic and Social Experiences
Author: Salve Regina S. Felix
International Journal of Thesis Projects and Dissertations (IJTPD)
Vol. 14, Issue 3, July 2026 - September 2026
Page No: 1-6
Research Publish Journals
Website: www.researchpublish.com
Published date: 07-September-2026
