Translation in class

Translation refers to the use of both L1 and L2 in language teaching as part of the Grammar Translation Method. It can be used both in the context of exercises in a standard English-teaching class setting and as an ESP course aimed at professional translators or interpreters.

Together with other ‘traditional' tools such as dictation, reading aloud and drills, translation fell into disuse as teaching method with the advent of the communicative methodologies which tended to "forbid" use of L1 in classrooms.