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Introduction:
In the realm of English Language Teaching (ELT), the use of the learners' first language (L1) has been a topic of much debate. At Britishey Training Centre, we recognize the importance of striking a balance between using L1 judiciously and promoting English immersion in the classroom. In this article, we explore the advantages and potential pitfalls of utilizing L1 in the ELT classroom, emphasizing the need for thoughtful and intentional implementation.
When L1 Can Be Harmful: While the use of L1 can sometimes aid comprehension and facilitate learning, there are instances where its overuse or misuse can be detrimental to students' language development. Some scenarios where the use of L1 can be harmful include:
Advantages of Using L1 with Monolingual Classes: Despite the potential drawbacks, there are instances where the judicious use of L1 can be beneficial, especially in monolingual classroom settings. Some advantages include:
Challenges and Reasons Behind Attacking the Use of L1: Despite the potential benefits, the use of L1 in the ELT classroom has faced criticism and resistance from various stakeholders. Some of the reasons behind attacking the use of L1 include:
Conclusion: In conclusion, the judicious use of L1 in the ELT classroom requires thoughtful consideration and balance. While L1 can be a valuable tool for clarification, understanding, and rapport-building, it should be used sparingly and purposefully to avoid dependency and immersion disruption. At Britishey Training Centre, we advocate for a student-centred approach that prioritises effective communication and meaningful language acquisition, while acknowledging and embracing the linguistic diversity of our learners.
© 2025 Britishey Training Centre Ltd. All rights reserved. Britishey Training Centre Ltd is a registered British company (Company No. 16463616) and a UK-approved learning provider (UKPRN: 10098455). Registered office: 71–75 Shelton Street, Covent Garden, London, WC2H 9JQ, United Kingdom.
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