The Role of Grammar in Second Language Lexical Processing

Abstract

The role of grammatical knowledge in second language (L2) lexical processing is far from clear. Providing evidence from a recent introspective study, this paper seeks to demonstrate the significant contribution that such knowledge can make to inferring the meanings of unfamiliar words while reading, and to possible consequent acquisition of L2 vocabulary. The findings of the study point to the importance of learners’ knowledge of grammar in L2 lexical processing and L2 vocabulary acquisition process, and lends support to the intrinsic value of grammar instruction.