The Role of L1 to Teach English for Primary School 5th Grade Students in Tarakanita Primary School Magelang

Abstract

Pro and cons in using L1 in English language classroom has been discussed for many years. The pro sides argued that using L1 in FL classroom should be minimized for the learners in acquiring the target language. However, the cons sides revealed that using L1 in FL classroom had positive role in teaching-learning process, such as; to give instructions, to explain grammar concept or reading text, to explain the meaning of difficult vocabulary, to check the students' understanding, and to give feedback to the students which could help the learners in acquiring the L2. Inspired by the pros and cons, this study has attempted to investigate the role of L1 th teacher used when teaching grade 5 primary school students. This paper is based on the classroom observations conducted in grade 5 English classes in Tarakanita Primary School, Magelang. It aimed at showing the frequency of L1 usage in Teaching English to Primary School students. The findings suggested that L1 usage still took important roles in teaching learning process.