First language mix in English class

The debate over whether or not students¿ first language should be used in English language classrooms has been controversial for a long time. Findings in the literature reveal two opposing views: On one end of the continuum are those who believe that L1 should not be used in L2 classrooms and call for its prohibition, and on the other end there are those who believe that L1 is useful for L2 learning and it should be employed in the English language classroom. However, a unified approach regarding the use of L1 is still absent thereby confusing teachers about the contexts in which L1 should and should not be used. It is this debate that aroused my interest in conducting this research. The purpose of this study was investigating the use of Wolayita language in grade five English classes. Basically; the extent to which wolayita language is used,reason teachers give for using wolayita language, and teachers and students attitude towards the use of Wolayita language in grade five English classes. It is, therefore, recommended that teachers should consider the use of student¿s first language in English classes systematically.