1. Eliciting language “How do you say ‘X’ in English?”
2. Checking comprehension “How do you say ‘I’ve been waiting for ten
minutes’ in Spanish?” (Also used for comprehension of a reading or
listening text.)
Checking for sense If students write or say something in the L2 that
does not make sense, have them try to translate it into the L1 to realize
their error.
Starting with the
L1 provides a
sense of security
and validates the
learners’ lived
experiences,
allowing them
to express
themselves. The
learner is then willing
to experiment
and take risks with
English.”
sense
Developing circumlocution strategies When students do not know how
to say something in the L2, have them think of different ways to say the
same thing in the L1, which may be easier to translate.