M.A. Thesis:

Foundations of Cross-languaging among EFL Iranian Language Learners in Oral Class Communications

Abstract In this study, the researcher examined the uses of L1 –here Persian- in some English language institutes and schools (both ordinary & featured) in Sabzevar, Iran. The general aims were to examine when and how targeted learners and teachers used their first language in class contexts. Participants in this study included one hundred and ninety-one learners plus thirteen teachers who were only female learners in schools but from both gender in English language institutes. Students’ age range varied from 11 to 16 years old and their teachers’ age varied from 25 to 45 years. The time allocated for observation in this study was for a twenty-five-minute class observation for five sessions. Observation protocols were prepared and saved through Marshall’s Model (2011) for class observation. Findings indicate that initially students responded to teachers’ utterances/ via L1 when their teachers resorted to Persian. Moreover, as to L1 uses within sampled English classes, codes and categories were classified in some six lines including 1) L1 used for saying memories and life experiences, 2) L1 used for translating (word, phrase, and sentence), 3) L1 used for explaining grammatical structures, 4) L1 used for doing assignments, 5) L1 used for reminding assignments, and finally, 6) L1 used for evaluating students’ understanding-assessment issues. Regarding limitations as to L2 uses, within classified tables after observation protocols, the researcher made notes of such cases as 1) lack of knowledge in the preparation stage, 2) not having enough information about current standards for code switching within ELT arenas, 3) fear in losing the time, 4) lack of access to technology, 5) teachers’ fear of losing face, 6) teachers’ high concerns for managing class standards, among others. Possible interpretations were given in the light of recent code-switching theories for .language education realms in the end.

Keywords: Cross-Languaging, Code-Switching, Interpersonal communication, Interaction, L1 uses.