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Writing Systems, Reading Processes, and Cross-Linguistic Influences: Reflections from the Chinese, Japanese and Korean Languages
Edited by Hye K. Pae
[Bilingual Processing and Acquisition 7] 2018
► pp. 293–312

Chapter 14
Cross-linguistic interactions in L2 word meaning inference in English as a foreign language

L2 reading entails a complex cross-linguistic interaction between L1 reading ability and L2 linguistic knowledge. As such, it is seen as a dynamic process of coalescing diverse resources, including cognitive skills, linguistic knowledge, and metalinguistic awareness, in two languages. In this chapter, we explain the nature of morphological awareness as an abstract, yet language-dependent, construct. We then analyze systematic variations in grapheme-morpheme relationships in typologically different languages. Based on the analysis, we propose specific predictions regarding the joint contributions of L1 reading and L2 resources to the development and utilization of L2 morphological awareness. We report a summary of a study addressing the relative contributions of L1 reading ability, L2 morphological awareness and L2 linguistic knowledge to L2 word meaning inference.

Keywords: cross-linguistic interaction, L1 influence, L2 proficiency, word meaning inference, morphological awareness, L2 knowledge
Article outline
  • Morphological awareness and reading acquisition
  • Cross-linguistic variation in morphological awareness
  • Cross-linguistic sharing of metalinguistic awareness
  • Morphological awareness in L2 reading development
  • The study
  • Method
    • Setting and participants
    • Instruments
  • Analysis
  • Results
  • Discussion
  • Summary conclusions
  • References
Published online: 10 July 2018
DOI logo
https://doi.org/10.1075/bpa.7.14kod
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