Why is it important for ELL students to connect their L1 with L2?

Connecting a student's first language (L1) with their second language (L2) is crucial for building vocabulary knowledge. When ELL students understand the relationship between words in their native language and the new language they are learning, it facilitates the process of acquiring new vocabulary. This connection helps them recognize cognates, which are words that have similar meanings and forms in both languages, and fosters a deeper understanding of concepts and nuances.

By bridging the gap between L1 and L2, students can utilize their existing language skills to better comprehend and retain new vocabulary. This approach not only helps them learn words more quickly but also empowers them to make meaningful connections with the language they are learning, ultimately leading to more effective communication and increased confidence in their language abilities.

While the other options touch on important aspects of the ELL experience, such as cultural understanding and physical skills, they do not directly address the fundamental role that vocabulary building plays in language acquisition.