Language Transfer: The role of L1 in Learning L2

Language transfer is a linguistic phenomenon which refers to integrating elements from the native language (L1) while learning a second language (L2). The presence of L1 in L2 learning was not accepted by all researchers; some highlight its facilitating effect and others emphasize its hindering effect in learning L2. Language transfer has been tackled by contrastive analysis and error analysis. Besides, language transfer manifest in different forms and different factors influence its use. It is of different types, and its role in L2 classrooms is regarded differently by teachers. However, positive transfer is of immense help in learning L2.