JALT2025 - Tokyo

Conceptual effects of L1 use via translation tasks in L2 classrooms: A comparison of learners’ L2 target-likeness between tasks with and without L1

Oct 31, 2025, 5:10 PM

30m

National Olympics Memorial Youth Center / 国立オリンピック記念青少年総合センター

Research-oriented Presentation (30-minutes) Pedagogy Room 301

Speaker

Lin Shen (University of Cambridge)

Description

This study examines whether L1 use via translation tasks enhances or constrains L2 conceptualization. Comparing bilinguals’ L2 motion event expressions in video narration (without L1) and translation (with L1), results reveal that translation tasks foster greater target-likeness. Findings provide empirical support for L1 scaffolding effects, advocating translation as a pedagogical tool in L2 classrooms. By bridging cognitive linguistics and language pedagogy, this study sheds light on the conceptual benefits of L1 use in L2 learning.

Summary

This study examines whether L1 use via translation tasks enhances or constrains L2 conceptualization. Comparing bilinguals’ L2 motion event expressions in video narration (without L1) and translation (with L1), results reveal that translation tasks foster greater target-likeness. Findings provide empirical support for L1 scaffolding effects, advocating translation as a pedagogical tool in L2 classrooms. By bridging cognitive linguistics and language pedagogy, this study sheds light on the conceptual benefits of L1 use in L2 learning.