Institutional Repository | Satya Wacana Christian University: An Analysis of the Use of First Language in Second Language Classroom in a Junior High School

An Analysis of the Use of First Language in Second Language Classroom in
a Junior High School
Debby Yermia Sabbatika Rahayu

ABSTRACT
The use of L1 in English language classroom has been discussed for many years. It also raises
confrontation between pros and cons. The pro sides argue that using L1 in L2 classroom will
give bad effect to the learners in acquiring the target language. However, some agree that L1
should be used in L2 calssroom because it gives positive effect to both teacher and students. By
knowing the pros and cons, this study conducted to investigate on why and when Junior High
School English teachers use L1 in their teaching and learning process. This paper is based on the
interview with three English teachers and classroom observations conducted in SMP Masehi
Kudus. It purposes to show of why and when the use of L1 in teaching English to Junior High
School students. The discussion suggested that the purposes of using L1 still take important roles
in teaching learning process. As the result, the researcher found that the use of L1 in SMP
Masehi Kudus really help the teachers in their teaching and learning process such as; to provide
clear instructions, to give clear explanation, to check students’ understanding or comprehension,
to translate difficult terms, to save the time, and as compensatory strategies.
Key words: First language (L1), Second language (L2), Junior High School, The Purposes of L1