|  e-ISSN: 2717-6886

Original article | International Journal of Language and Education Research 2023, Vol. 5(1) 25-45

The Role of L1 in EFL and ESL Classes: A Literature Review

Burcu Karafil & Özlem Uysal Ilbay

pp. 25 - 45   |  DOI: https://doi.org/10.29329/ijler.2023.590.2   |  Manu. Number: MANU-2308-18-0001

Published online: April 15, 2023  |   Number of Views: 66  |  Number of Download: 418


Abstract

The use of the first language (L1) in an English as a Foreign Language (EFL) and English as a Second Language (ESL) classroom can serve various purposes to facilitate language learning. Accordingly, the role of L1 in EFL and ESL classes has been debated in the history of English Language Teaching (ELT) and Second Language Acquisition (SLA) for many decades. However, employing L1 as a teaching tool in language classrooms is often discouraged. This article aims to explore the role of L1 in EFL and ESL education, drawing upon an extensive body of empirical evidence. It seeks to illustrate how teachers can strategically leverage learners’ L1 as a pedagogical resource within the classroom setting, as well as explore the different functions that L1 can serve or can potentially serve in language classrooms. Additionally, the study briefly addresses the concerns raised by researchers regarding the potential negative impacts of using L1.

Keywords: L1 use, EFL classes, ESL classes, Language learning


How to Cite this Article?

APA 6th edition
Karafil, B. & Ilbay, O.U. (2023). The Role of L1 in EFL and ESL Classes: A Literature Review . International Journal of Language and Education Research, 5(1), 25-45. doi: 10.29329/ijler.2023.590.2

Harvard
Karafil, B. and Ilbay, O. (2023). The Role of L1 in EFL and ESL Classes: A Literature Review . International Journal of Language and Education Research, 5(1), pp. 25-45.

Chicago 16th edition
Karafil, Burcu and Ozlem Uysal Ilbay (2023). "The Role of L1 in EFL and ESL Classes: A Literature Review ". International Journal of Language and Education Research 5 (1):25-45. doi:10.29329/ijler.2023.590.2.

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