Second Language Learning

The present work examined the predictive
role of phonological awareness and decoding accuracy in
second language (L2) learning. Study 1 examined the role of
native language (English) decoding accuracy in predicting
second language (Spanish) learning in college-age adults.
The study tested the hypothesis that the predictive
relationship between native language (L1) decoding accuracy
and second language learning is mediated by decoding
accuracy in the second language. The results were in line
with the hypothesis. Study 2 tested theoretical models of
second language (English) reading comprehension among
native Spanish speaking children. The model hypothesizing
an indirect relationship between L2 phonological awareness
and L2 reading comprehension, as mediated by decoding and
vocabulary in the L2, was more parsimonious and consistent
with the observed data than the alternative model. However,
both models suggested that the two most important skills
for reading comprehension in English (L2) are decoding
accuracy and vocabulary knowledge.