First language Interference (Standard Arabic) in English Speaking production.

Abstract

The present research work aims to investigate how first language (standard Arabic) interferes in the speaking production among English major students at Ibn Khaldoun University of Tiaret. Three theories were used in this study in relation to language transfer; the Behaviourist learning theory, the cognitive , and Contrastive Analysis theory (CA) in order to compare between the speaking elements of the target language such as ,phonology(pronunciation, spelling),and fluency with the same elements in the students’ L1. The purpose of the research is to show reasons that lead to the interference of English students while acquiring speaking skills, and to know whether it is negative or positive to avoid such kind of transfer. Both qualitative and quantitative approaches were utilized to optimize the success of the research by involving both students and teachers. The research findings indicate that the students’ L1 interferes negatively in speaking English at the level of various elements. Findings also indicate that there are many reasons behind language transfer among English major students. At the end of this work, some recommendations were made in order to avoid the first language interference.