Translation as a Tool for Teaching English as a Second Language

Abstract

The role of translation in English as a Foreign Language ( EFL)  or English as a Second Language (ESL) classroom has been a controversial issue . Supporters of the bilingual approach suggest that the use of L1 in L2 classroom helps students to learn L2 more effectively , whereas supporters of the monolingual approach state that the use of the target language solely in L2 classroom facilitates the learning of the target language and stimulates the students' thinking as well as proficiency in L2 .This paper discusses the extent to which instructors at Ajloun and Irbid university colleges use Arabic in English classrooms . It also discusses the usefulness of using translation and the situations where it is useful in language learning and teaching . The study concludes that most instructors opt for using translation as it is effective in some situations ; mainly in clarifying new vocabulary , discussing  grammatical issues , teaching idiomatic expressions , explaining reading passages , comparing and contrasting between L1 and L2 as well as checking the students' reading and listening comprehension .

Keywords : Translation in EFL , teaching English , foreign language