ABSTRACT
This chapter reviews several research studies conducted in second language (L2) contexts. The studies illustrate current methods for conducting research and showcase topics central to reading development in L2 settings. The chapter demonstrates that many of the linguistic factors important for first language (L1) reading research are also important for L2 reading researchers. The chapter outlines and extends major topics that are commonly explored in L2 reading contexts. It presents a number of key L2 reading research studies and introduces ideas for possible instructional applications and even a “curricularization” of good instructional applications. Many claims have been made, in both L2 and L1 contexts, for extensive reading. Reading ability is only likely to develop gradually when L2 learners are continually exposed to abundant meaningful input, or extensive reading.
