INTEGRATION OF TRANSLATION IN FOREIGN LANGUAGE TEACHING

Abstract

Translation plays a crucial role in the instruction of foreign languages, acting as a bridge between learners' native and target languages and promoting both linguistic proficiency and cultural comprehension. Traditionally regarded as a method for vocabulary acquisition and grammar practice, translation has evolved into a dynamic pedagogical technique that significantly enhances students' communicative abilities. This paper examines the diverse functions of translation within foreign language education, highlighting its potential to improve reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills. By analyzing various instructional methods, including direct translation, comparative analysis, and task-based translation, this study underscores how translation facilitates a deeper understanding of language structures, idiomatic expressions, and cultural subtleties. Furthermore, it investigates the advantages of incorporating translation exercises into contemporary language curricula, such as enhancing learners’ cognitive flexibility, critical thinking, and intercultural competence. The findings indicate that, when applied strategically, translation serves not only as a tool for achieving linguistic precision but also as a vital pathway to effective communication in an increasingly globalized environment.