SOME DIFFICULTIES OF USING THE MOTHER TONGUE IN THE ENGLISH
Keywords:
Mother Tongue, L1, English as a Foreign Language (EFL), Classroom, Translation, Language Acquisition, Interference, Dependency, Language Teaching, Pedagogy.Abstract
This study investigates the challenges associated with the use of the mother tongue (L1) in English as a Foreign Language (EFL) classrooms. While strategic use of L1 can offer benefits such as facilitating comprehension, reducing anxiety, and promoting deeper engagement, its overuse or inappropriate application can impede language acquisition. This paper explores the common difficulties encountered by both teachers and students, including reliance on translation, interference with target language production, and the potential for creating a dependency on L1. Through a review of relevant literature and empirical evidence, this article aims to provide insights into the effective and balanced integration of L1 in EFL instruction, offering practical recommendations for educators seeking to optimize language learning outcomes.
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References
1. Vygotsky, L. S. (1978). Mind in society: The development of higher psychological processes. Cambridge, MA: Harvard University Press. (Relevant for understanding the role of social interaction and scaffolding in learning, which can be connected to L1 use.)
2. Atkinson, D. (1987). The mother tongue in the classroom: A neglected resource? ELT Journal, 41(4), 241-247. (A classic article that challenges the traditional prohibition of L1 in the classroom).
3. Cook, V. (2001). Second language learning and language teaching (3rd ed.). Arnold. (A comprehensive overview of SLA, including discussion of L1 influence).
4. https://www.scribd.com/document/613463745/The-Pros-and-Cons-of-using-Mother-Tongues-in-English-Teaching - :~:text=mother%20tongue%20in%20English%20class.&text=with%20students%20in%20their%20own,student%20rapport%20in%20the%20class.&text=using%20crude%20and%20inaccurate%20translation,246;%20Harbord%2C1992).&text=lesser%20opportunities%20for%20L2%20speaking,learn%20things%20including%20another%20language.
