First Language Communication in the Second Language Classroom First Language Communication in the Second Language Classroom: A Valuable or Damaging Resource? A final paper written First Language Communication in the Second Language Classroom

Abstract The exact role of one's first language (L1) in second language (L2) education has not been clearly defined in the literature. A growing body of research exists both criticizing and advocating the use of the native language, but an agreement has not been reached. A more clearly defined set of times, functions and roles of the native language in L2 education may help to better inform the debate. The intention of this paper is to determine whether such criteria exist, and to outline the prevailing arguments in favour of and against use of the L1 in L2 education. The paper concludes that many of the claims denying the value of the learners' L1 are not founded in empirical research therefore; the author determines that while L2-rich input is essential, the L1 can also serve as a valuable tool in L2 education. ii First Language Communication in the Second Language Classroo