Abstract
This study is designed to explore the role of second language (L2) English learners' working memory (WM), language proficiency, and age in the processing and comprehension of English anaphoric sentences. To this end, 40 EFL learners participated in the study. The proficiency levels of the participants varied from elementary to high-intermediate, as measured by the Quick Placement Test. A first-language Operation Span Task and a self-paced reading task were employed to measure the participants' WM capacity and anaphoric sentence processing and comprehension respectively. The results of standard multiple regression analyses revealed that 36% of the variation in anaphoric processing, and 70% of variation in anaphoric sentences comprehension could be accounted for by the independent variables of the study, with the composite WM as the only significant predictor. Moreover, both components of WM, i.e. WM processing and WM storage, significantly predicted 36% and 72% of variation in anaphoric processing and comprehension respectively; with the WM processing having a greater contribution in both cases. The findings of the study provide empirical evidence on the significant role of WM on anaphoric resolution.
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.