Mental simulation of object orientation and size: A conceptual replication with second language learners

Abstract

Previous research suggests that native (L1) speakers employ “mental simulations” for language comprehension. Empirical work shows that intrinsic object properties (shape, size and color) are indeed simulated, but the evidence for extrinsic properties (orientation) is less convincing. There is little work on simulation in second language (L2) learners, but since they have similar perceptual experiences as L1 speakers there is good reason to think that L2 learners too use simulation to comprehend L2 sentences. This paper aims to conceptually replicate previous simulation studies into object size and orientation with L2 learners (N = 223) and two L1 speaker control groups (N = 64). An important difference with previous work is that we use language-specific forms indicating size (Spanish augmentative suffixes) and orientation (German placement verbs). We expected that language-specific forms would cause simulation for both the intrinsic and extrinsic property under investigation. We employed a sentence-picture verification task and analyzed Yes/No responses and reaction times (RTs). RT results on mis/match trials reveal no orientation effect, but a size match effect. Findings support previous research with null results for orientation and add support for size simulation. We suggest that future studies examine whether L2 learners make simulations for both implied and explicit sentences, whether they simulate with or without prior language instruction and whether they also simulate shape and color.