L1 in ELT: Friend or foe?
The use of L1, also known as the learner’s own language, has long been a topic of debate in ELT. This masterclass briefly overviews some of the key moments in the use of L1 in EFL, supported by examples of practical classroom activities, for the judicious use of L1 in our ELT classrooms.
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What you will learn
The use of L1, also known as the learner’s own language, has long been a topic of debate in ELT. At times it was central to the process of teaching and learning English (grammar-translation) and at others reviled with English-only policies becoming central to language teaching practices (the Direct Method).
We are now at the point where principled L1 use has become more mainstream, in part reflecting changes in language policy but also in response to greater methodological freedom (for some) as principled eclecticism becomes an accepted position for classroom practitioners.
However, many teachers remain uncertain about L1 use and in some cases are constrained by academic managers or national language teaching policies.
This masterclass briefly overviews some of the key moments in the use of L1 in EFL before presenting a rationale, supported by examples of practical classroom activities, for the judicious use of L1 in our ELT classrooms for the benefit of our learners and language learning generally.
Course content
Certified Workshop
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About the trainer

Neil Harris – Teacher Trainer & Director of Marketing at CELT Language School
Neil Harris started his career in ELT in 1993 after completing a CTEFLA with IH London. He quickly realized that language learning and teaching was his true passion. Neil has worked in a variety of roles in the UK and Italy, including as a teacher, Senior Teacher, EAP Lecturer, DoS, Teacher Trainer, Business Development Manager, and Director of Marketing. Currently, Neil focuses on developing online ESP medical English and teacher development programmes in his role in agent-based marketing and course development.
FAQ
The ELT masterclass series are recorded two-part workshop presented by the best experts in the field of ELT. The first part is aimed at in-depth knowledge delivery and the second is discussions and reflections.
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Reviews from other learners
Another fantastic workshop
The L1 in ELT masterclass is an invaluable resource for any English language teacher looking to enhance their teaching skills in the classroom. The workshop provides a comprehensive overview of the use of L1 in EFL, presenting a rationale for the judicious and principled use of the learner’s own language in the classroom.
The content of the workshop is extremely insightful, providing practical examples of classroom activities that can be used to integrate L1 into the teaching and learning process. The trainer, Neil Harris, is a highly experienced teacher trainer and director of marketing at CELT Language School. His expertise in the field is evident throughout the workshop, and he provides clear and concise explanations that are easy to understand.