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Second language reading research: Problems and possibilities

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  28 November 2008

Keiko Koda*
Affiliation:
Ohio University
*
Department of Linguistics, Ohio University, 103 Gordy Hall, Athens, OH 45701

Abstract

A major purpose of this article is to examine first language (L1) reading theories from second language (L2) perspectives and, in so doing, to uncover significant research voids related to L2 problems. The article first considers the unique aspects of L2 reading in order to identify dimensions in which its theory must differ from accepted L1 constructs. It then discusses three fundamental distinctions that separate L1 and L2 reading: (a) the consequences of prior reading experience; (b) the effects of crosslinguistic processing; and (c) the compensatory devices stemming from the efforts of learners with limited linguistic knowledge to solve comprehension problems. Finally, several pedagogically oriented research themes which may be helpful in evaluating the instructional utility of current L2 reading theories are delineated.

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Type
Articles
Copyright
Copyright © Cambridge University Press 1994

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