Foreign Language Instruction in EarIy Elementary School: Using First Language in the Foreign Language Classroom

• In Event: Roundtable Session 16
  In Roundtable Session: Teacher and Student Empowerment: Improving Teaching and Learning Across Subject Matters

Abstract

Using first language (L1) in foreign language (L2) instruction is a controversial topic of debate. This time-series design study alternated a Spanish-only (L2-Only) approach and a mix of Spanish and English (L1+L2) approach for instruction, in an elementary school foreign language classroom. Participants were 21 English-speaking second grade students learning Spanish as a foreign language. Data was collected in the form of pre- and post-tests, classroom observations, and pre- and post-research student surveys. This study suggests that the use of L1 in the L2 classroom is advantageous to students, in particular students with learning differences, and it contributes to a classroom atmosphere conducive to learning. It is also advantageous to teachers, since it allows for better use of instruction time.

Author

• Zita Agazzi, Notre Dame de Namur University