Investigating the Effect of Using L1 in EFL Classroom with Special Reference to English Reading Comprehension

Abstract

This study aims at investigating the use of Arabic language in English reading comprehension. It explores possible reasons for the use of L1 while learning FL. It also surveys teachers’ and students’ views on the use of L1 in the classroom. To achieve the set objectives, the study employed the experimental research method where the researcher used Arabic in the experimental group to help explaining things when they were not clear; to quickly clarify new vocabulary or phrases, while Arabic was not used at all in the control group. Furthermore, questionnaires, and class observations were used to address the research questions and objectives.60 pupils from AlShaheed Mahieldien Secondary School participated in the study experiment, 100 teachers and 250 pupils completed questionnaires, and 7 EFL classes were observed by the researcher. The study found out that the use of Arabic language facilitated EFL reading comprehension. It is also found that teachers use Arabic language for other purposes though their uses of Arabic within English classes ranged from “rarely” to “always” in the questionnaire. Moreover, both teachers and pupils demonstrated positive attitude towards the use of L1 within English classes. Finally, based on the findings, the study recommends a limited use of L1 in: explaining vocabularies, grammar, and concepts when necessary.