How do you tackle L1 interference in large classes while keeping engagement high?
A discussion in Teaching English in Indonesia on the SpeakWise Indonesia teacher forum.
We've been thinking about the challenges of managing large classes in Indonesian schools and the common issue of L1 interference. With curriculum pressures and the diverse backgrounds of our students, it can be tough to maintain engagement during English lessons. We’d love to hear how you've navigated this delicate balance — what strategies have worked for you in fostering an English-speaking environment while embracing the local context? Share your experiences and let’s learn from one another!
1 reply
James — English teacher
One thing that's made a big difference for me is setting an "English first" rule from day one. I explain that it's okay to make mistakes, but we should always try English before using Indonesian. If a student switches to Indonesian, I'll usually ask, "Can you say that in English?" and help them if they get stuck instead of giving the answer straight away. In larger classes, I also use lots of pair work, role plays, and speaking activities where students have a reason to communicate in English. The more opportunities they have to speak, the less they rely on Indonesian. It's not about banning their first language completely, it's about building their confidence so English becomes their first choice in the classroom.