Based on Mr. Hernandez's observation that John's reading is strong in L1, which is a reasonable assumption about L2 reading success?

Based on Mr. Hernandez's observation that John's reading is strong in L1, which is a reasonable assumption about L2 reading success?

• A. He will automatically be fluent in L2.
• B. He will be a good reader in L2 because good readers know how to fill in gaps in understanding.
• C. L1 reading ability has no impact on L2.
• D. He will be a good reader in L2 because L1 and L2 share identical scripts.

Answer: (B)

Transfer of reading strategies from the first language to the second language explains why a strong L1 reader is likely to manage L2 reading well. A skilled reader in L1 brings effective approaches—monitoring understanding, using context to fill gaps, predicting meaning, and drawing on background knowledge—that help make sense of unfamiliar material in L2. Because those strategies transfer, John is likely to become a good L2 reader when he can apply the same problem‑solving habits to new vocabulary and syntax. Automatic fluency isn’t guaranteed; L2 introduces different sounds, vocabulary, and writing systems that require additional practice. Saying L1 ability has no impact overlooks how much strategy use and prior knowledge help readers tackle new texts. And assuming scripts are identical across languages is rarely true, since even similar alphabets or writing systems require language-specific decoding and comprehension skills.

Transfer of reading strategies from the first language to the second language explains why a strong L1 reader is likely to manage L2 reading well. A skilled reader in L1 brings effective approaches—monitoring understanding, using context to fill gaps, predicting meaning, and drawing on background knowledge—that help make sense of unfamiliar material in L2. Because those strategies transfer, John is likely to become a good L2 reader when he can apply the same problem‑solving habits to new vocabulary and syntax.

Automatic fluency isn’t guaranteed; L2 introduces different sounds, vocabulary, and writing systems that require additional practice. Saying L1 ability has no impact overlooks how much strategy use and prior knowledge help readers tackle new texts. And assuming scripts are identical across languages is rarely true, since even similar alphabets or writing systems require language-specific decoding and comprehension skills.