How Do We Understand a Second Language? : Examining Sentence Processing Through Prosody

Abstract

In this paper, we discuss how second language (L2) learners process prosody, emphasizing their ability to integrate multiple linguistic cues during comprehension. In L2 comprehension, learners need to adapt to their linguistic environment and anticipate likely continuations of utterances by interpreting prosodic patterns. Understanding these processes is crucial to identifying the mechanisms underlying L2 prosodic acquisition and processing. Our discussion begins with an overview of key models that explain how L2 learners acquire prosody in the target language. We then consider how prosodic cues influence L2 comprehension and highlight specific challenges faced by learners. By focusing on incremental and anticipatory processing, we review research findings that clarify the cognitive and perceptual mechanisms involved in L2 prosodic processing. Finally, we present empirical studies to illustrate qualitative differences between native speakers and L2 learners in how they integrate prosodic cues with other linguistic information and adapt to both conventional and atypical prosodic patterns.