ABSTRACT
Research with normal as well as with dyslexic readers indicates that recognition and comprehension of single printed words can occur without the prior construction of a phonemic code (for reviews see Coltheart, 1980; Henderson, 1982; McCusker, Hillinger & Bias, 1981). Although lexical access for single printed words may be visually mediated, questions remain about the possible importance of activated phonological codes for other aspects of silent reading. Thus far, unfortunately, the contribution of speech-based information has proved difficult to specify; no definite understanding exists as to the level of phonological representation that may be involved in the processing of written words, nor is there agreement concerning the kinds of tasks that call for the use of such information.
