Patterns and predictors of reading comprehension growth in first and second language readers

Background The present study examined patterns and predictors of reading comprehension growth in first language (L1) second (L2) readers the upper grades primary school. Previous research suggests that L1 L2 differ their trajectories differences proficiency play a role this. However, how at different levels processing influence has not been investigated. In particular, unification skills such as syntactic integration ability to form situation model text is under-investigated. Method longitudinal study, 63 Dutch 109 were followed from fourth sixth grade (mean ages 10 13 years). children had variety backgrounds. Grades 4–6, was assessed. Grade 4, participants also assessed on cognitive (nonverbal reasoning working memory), decoding, vocabulary, (syntax building ability). Patterns investigated by means mixed-effects modelling. Results Reading predicted vocabulary with lower decoding or scores made more gains. high did growth. low less gains than vocabulary. Unification initial but Conclusions Findings suggest linguistic above word level predict Children literacy caught up comprehension, this true for children. however, peers.