摘要：Depth and breadth of vocabulary have been the focus of research in language skills in the last two decades. However, the role of these two aspects of vocabulary knowledge in listening comprehension has remained an under - researched issue. Accordingly, to gain insights into the nature of such relationship, the present study aimed at investigating the predictive role of depth versus breadth of vocabulary k nowledge in L2 learners' listening comprehension. To this end, Word Association Test (WAT), Vocabulary Levels Test (VLT), and IELTS listening sub - test were administered to 73 intermediate EFL learners whose level was determined by Oxford Quick Placement Te st (2004). Results of linear regression analysis revealed that: a) vocabulary depth dimension, unlike vocabulary breadth, was found to be significantly correlated with listening comprehension and could predict 72% of the variance in listening scores, b)onl y VLT scores form the 3K level could predict, inconsiderably though, the variance in the listening comprehension test scores, c) the two dimensions of breadth and depth correlated moderately (r = .49, p < 0.5) and WAT scores could predict 22% of the varian ce within VLT scores. The findings shed lights on the necessity of considering deep aspects of vocabulary knowledge, more and above vocabulary breadth, in dealing with listening tasks and activities. More specifically material developers need to consider t he reported findings in designing listening materials to assist L2 listeners apply their word knowledge while processing aural input.
关键词：Depth of vocabulary; breadth of vocabulary; Word Association Test (WAT); Vocabulary Level Test (VLT); listeningcomprehension
