Very useful insights on the use of L1 in the classroom this week.

Very useful insights on the use of L1 in the classroom this week. I like using translation exercises sometimes for students for the very reason Penny cited: to raise awareness. The difference between languages is something I find fascinating and students often share this interest.

Before the session, I viewed L1 use as a little 'negative', but sometimes it is necessary with my students and, as it's for learning, means it is not always a bad thing.

In conclusion, there is a place for L1 if it's used constructively! Thank you, Penny!

Comments

  1. Francesca Di MambroNovember 23, 2017 at 10:57 AM

    I agree and think it can save a lot of time when contrasts can be made e.g. this works exactly the same in Spanish/this is the same as Spanish but be careful of.... I think students value their teachers' knowledge of their own language, even if not amazingly proficient.
    This is a fun activity which uses translation from Jamie Keddie's website:
    lessonstream.org - Roxanne - Lessonstream.org

    ReplyDelete
  2. Espace Lingua (Espace Lingua)November 23, 2017 at 10:56 PM

    I completely agree in that students value teachers' knowledge of their L1. It's also useful for empathy reasons; we know how difficult learning a new language is and so that helps to build relationships.

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