| Speaking and writing constitute two major skills in learning a second language. In the process of developing these two skills, the use of the L1 seems common because learners tend to translate when they speak or write. However, teachers and researches have been arguing about the use of L1 in teaching EFL. Cook (2000, cited in Turnbull & Arnett, 2002) encourages teachers to use the L1 when explaining grammar, organizing tasks, disciplining students, and implementing tests. He believes teachers should use the L1 when “the cost of the L1 is too great”? whenever it is too difficult or time consuming for the students to process and understand the TL. |