In learning a new language

Question

Accepted Answer

The correct option is 4:
The option stating that "the mother tongue should not be used by the learner" aligns most closely with language teaching methodologies like the Direct Method and its purist variations, which advocate for immersion and direct association between the new language's forms and their meaning, without the filter of the mother tongue (L1). The reasoning behind this approach is that continuous reliance on L1, especially by beginners, can lead to negative transfer or interference, causing errors in grammar, pronunciation, and thinking patterns in the new language (L2). Therefore, to promote authentic language acquisition and ensure the learner starts thinking directly in the L2, minimizing or eliminating L1 use, particularly in instructional settings, is often considered the ideal approach for fostering independence and fluency in the target language.

The incorrect option is 1:
While the knowledge of the mother tongue can sometimes be helpful (especially at higher levels of language analysis or when comparing cultural concepts), this option is often considered less universally correct than Option 4 in the context of pure L2 acquisition principles. Relying on L1 can create a crutch, hindering the development of L2 fluency and automaticity.

The incorrect option is 2:
The statement "the use of mother language interferes rather than facilitates" is technically true in many linguistic scenarios (known as negative transfer), but it is a strong negative statement about the act of using the L1. This option describes the potential problem, but it does not represent the prescriptive advice (or standard pedagogical approach) as well as Option 4, which tells the learner what *should* be done.

The incorrect option is 3:
This option suggests that the use of the mother tongue is consistently beneficial, which is contrary to the core principle of many modern language teaching methods that aim to reduce L1 interference. While judicious and controlled use of the mother tongue can be helpful for explaining complex grammar points or abstract concepts, unlimited or primary reliance on it can significantly impede fluency development and cause structural errors.