Elsherbiny, Hossam A.2025-02-192025-02-192025Elsherbiny, H. A. (2025). Reconceptualizing the Role of L1 in Second Language Pedagogy  . L2 Journal: An Open Access Refereed Journal for World Language Educators, 17(1). http://dx.doi.org/10.5070/L2.35245https://hdl.handle.net/1911/118277This reflective report aims to reimagine the role of the first language (L1) in the second language (L2) classroom by challenging the prevalent monolingual approach in second language pedagogy. Drawing from personal teaching experiences and recent developments in applied linguistics, I argue for a more nuanced understanding of the L1's potential in the L2 classroom. Following a brief description of the historical context in which the monolingual approach gained prominence, I juxtapose the concepts of Common Underlying Proficiency and translanguaging with the artificial limitations imposed by adhering to a strict monolingual approach. By exploring how strategic L1 use can bridge cognitive-linguistic gaps and empower learners, I propose practical strategies for incorporating L1 into the L2 classroom. This report contributes to the ongoing debate on the effectiveness of Communicative Language Teaching (CLT) and advocates for a more inclusive approach that values learners' full linguistic repertoires.engExcept where otherwise noted, this work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives (CC BY-NC-ND) license. Permission to reuse, publish, or reproduce the work beyond the terms of the license or beyond the bounds of fair use or other exemptions to copyright law must be obtained from the copyright holder.Journal articlehttps://doi.org/10.5070/L2.35245