In certain instances, it is advisable to use the mother tongue when teaching children from Gr 4 upwards. TRUE OR FALSE
DISCUSS YOUR ANSWER
TRUE. It can be beneficial to use the mother tongue when teaching children from Grade 4 upwards in certain instances. When children reach this age, they have already developed a solid foundation in their mother tongue and can use it as a tool to aid their understanding and learning of new concepts. Using the mother tongue can help clarify complex ideas, provide context, and make difficult material more accessible to students.
Furthermore, using the mother tongue can help children retain information better and build their confidence in their abilities. It can also help bridge any gaps between what the child knows in their first language and what they are trying to learn in a second language.
However, it is important to note that a balance needs to be struck between using the mother tongue and the target language to ensure that children continue to develop proficiency in both languages. It is also important to consider the specific needs and preferences of each individual student when deciding whether to use the mother tongue in teaching.