Blog 9 - Elsa Auerbach "Reexamining English Only in the ESL Classroom"

Auerbach's article points out the misconception that many people have about ESL classrooms. One main theory is that teachers in ESL classrooms need to teach using English only and not allow the students to use their L1. This is do-able, yet presents many complications. Many students, although immersed in the English language, might be able to speak English, but not write in English. Auerbach writes that it is better when students are able to use their L1 within the classroom in order to learn English (within certain contexts).

I would agree with Auerbach wholeheartedly. I cannot imagine what learning English must feel like for a beginning student. English, as I have heard, is one of the hardest languages to learn because of its many rules and exceptions. I would agree that with beginner students, in order for them to comprehend how English works, it would be ok to allow them to use their L1. If they cannot even understand the English language, how are they to learn English literacy and the rules for English?

Auerbach's data comes from many studies that have been proven to help. One such study shows Spanish people learning English. These Spanish beginners had previously been in ESL classes that advocated English only, and they had been completely lost. However, when making the switch to a bilingual classroom, these students learned English faster and were able to actually know what they were learning. By allowing them to speak and use Spanish to learn English, it helped them to comprehend everything better, instead of forcing them to learn something in a language they did not know. It allowed them to relate to the lesson.

This technique is very similar to what we do when learning a foreign language. Beginner students are not necessarily taught only in the other language. For example, in college, my roommate was learning Spanish and for her beginner classes the professor spoke English in order for the students to know what they were learning. Then, as the classes became more advanced, the professor would speak only Spanish. I believe that this is the way to do it; beginner students need to know what they are learning in a way that they can relate to and not just be completely lost. By allowing students to use their L1, we are giving them more control over their learning (Auerbach says the same thing). People who have more control, or think they have more control, are more likely to be willing to learn and be more devoted to learning.

In conclusion, I would have to agree with Auerbach's article. I find it easier to teach students (especially beginning English learning students) in their L1. And, even though it may be more challenging for me as the teacher, it will ultimately be more beneficial. The students will feel more comfortable with learning English and be more willing to try.