THE USE OF L1 IN INDONESIAN EFL CLASSROOM

Abstract

The question of whether or not to include the student’s first language in the EFL classroom has been a matter of discussion and debate for a long time. This research was purposed to examine into usage of Bahasa Indonesia in English classrooms. The primary objectives were to investigate the teachers’ purpose of using Bahasa Indonesia EFL classroom.

This research was conducted at the ten grades of Islamic Senior High School level. The member of the language class is about 28 students. Collected data conducted through the observation of teaching learning process and teacher interviewed. The observation was managed by using online class provided by google meet application. The interview was conducted by using Whatsapp media.

This research shows that both the students and teacher feel better confidence in the teaching learning prosses if it is allowed to combine English with Bahasa Indonesia. It seen the cooperation between teachers and students to brighten up the classroom atmosphere to be effective and not boring.

According to the findings, the use of Bahasa Indonesia (L1) was for clarifying and understanding purposes. A balanced and wise use of L1 in the EFL classroom by both students and teacher is able to be beneficial in the language learning process. It may even be necessary to improve students’ comprehension.