Definition: The identity can be briefly defined as a sum of representations of the self. These representations are the person's conceptions and expressions of their individuality or group affiliations, being social, cultural, and so on. One’s L1 is a very important part of one’s identity. According to Schulter (2003), “The right of any person to maintain their identity can only be fully realized if they acquire a proper knowledge of their first language (or the language they learn from their parents) and/or their mother tongue during the educational process.” And according to Kumaradivelu (2006), learning a new language implies that one will be also learning a new culture and maybe assuming a new identity: “‘A new language and culture demand a personal adjustment'. We have to think of ways in which to deal with that adjustment in a gradual manner", otherwise it would be an identity shock. 
Comment: I totally agree with Kumaradivelu, because when you teach a language you are not only teaching words, but a new culture, new meanings. The student is acquiring a new identity as an English speaker. So the teacher has to be careful not to go beyond the student’s learning rhythm.
References:
MILLER, J. Audible difference: ESL and social identity in schools. Clevedon: Multilingual Matters, 2003.
SCHULTER, Beatrice. Language and Identity: The Situation in
NORTON, B. Identity and language learning: Gender, ethnicity and educational change.
KUMARADIVELU, B. Understanding language teaching: from method to postmethod.
More Sources:
Hapster, Lisa. Negotiation of Student Identity Inside and Outside of the ESL Classroom:
http://www.ed.psu.edu/englishpds/inquiry/projects/papers08/Harpster.pdf
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