Should students use their first language in English class?

Nick's ESL News Lessons

A printable worksheet for news-based English conversation classes.

Date: 2026/07/24

Difficulty: Upper Intermediate B2

PDF: Should students use their first language in English class?

Vocabulary Match

believe •• link
effective •• sure
approach •• method
researchers •• scientists
confident •• think
connect •• successful

Vocabulary Answers

believethink
effectivesuccessful
approachmethod
researchersscientists
confidentsure
connectlink

Article

Many people believe that students should only use English in an English classroom. However, a recent study in Namibia suggests that this may not be the most effective approach. Researchers found that children who were allowed to use their first language while learning English understood lessons more easily and felt more confident.

Instead of replacing English, their first language helped them explain ideas, ask questions and connect new words with what they already knew. The study suggests that learning a second language does not always require avoiding your first one. Sometimes, using both languages together can lead to faster learning and greater success.

Quiz

  1. What does the study in Namibia suggest about using home language in English classrooms?
  2. How did children feel when they used their home language while learning English?
  3. What did the children's first language help them do in the classroom?
  4. What does the study suggest about learning a second language and using your first language?

Quiz Answers (examples)

  1. The study suggests that using one's first language in English classrooms can be effective.
  2. The children felt more confident.
  3. Their first language helped them explain ideas, ask questions, and connect new words with what they already knew.
  4. The study suggests that learning a second language does not always require avoiding your first language.

Conversation

A:Did you hear about the study in Namibia?
B:Yeah, they say using your first language helps in learning English.
A:It makes sense. I always explain things better in my first language.
B:True, and it seems to boost confidence too.
A:Maybe we should try it in our classes.
B:Definitely! Mixing languages could be the secret to success.

Discussion

  1. Do you think using your first language helps you learn English better?
  2. What different ways can you learn a new language?
  3. Have you ever given up learning something? Why did you stop?
  4. What new skills would you like to learn?

Source Material

https://theconversation.com/why-children-learn-english-more-easily-with-the-help-of-their-home-language-namibian-study-287076

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