Reading efficiently in a second language (L2) is a crucial skill, but it is not universally achieved. Here we ask whether L2 reading efficiency is better captured as a language specific skill or whether it is mostly shared across L1 and L2, relying on general language abilities. To this end, we examined word frequency and predictability effects in…

The current study examined the proficiency of Israeli adolescents in reading single words in English, which is taught as a foreign language, and what language skills predict individual variability. Parallel measures of word reading, phonology, decoding, morpho-syntax and vocabulary in Hebrew and English were administered to 217 adolescents in 8th…

Noting the growing interest in recent years in the use of mentalistic measures in studying the reading process, this paper draws upon findings of studies conducted at the Hebrew University in Israel to show how mentalistic measures have been used effectively in reading research. Following a discussion of the unique role mentalistic data can play…

Argues that resisting reading, a kind of reading learned from recent feminist literary criticism, is a way of ensuring that learning about a foreign culture does not lead to the destruction of one's own identity. Students can read texts they are not sympathetic with because understanding does not mean accepting. (Author/VWL)

Presents the complementary Pyramid Syllabus Design (CPSD), developed at the Division of Foreign Languages, Tel Aviv University, Israel. The CPSD is a principled four-pronged approach to an English for Academic purposes reading course design employing elements of a Type A syllabus, one that focuses on the discrete elements of language. (Author/VWL)

The development of a model for criterion-referenced mastery reading comprehension tests for university courses in English as a Second Language (ESL) is designed. In the process of developing this model, two major issues were addressed: clarification of the concept of "criteria" within criterion-referenced testing and choice of the…