Correlation between phonological working memory, phonological awareness and language proficiency in Tehran preschoolers

Introduction: in regard to previous various studies, the role and importance of phonology is clear in ability to read. However, studies have shown different outcomes in understanding the relationship between memory, language and phonological awarness. Considering the different characteristics of Persian script and the lack of phonology and related cognitive processing in Farsi, the present study seemed to be necessary. Also because of the relationship between phonological memory and reading, in this study we expected to find the power of language proficiency and memory in predicting children's reading skill. The present study assessed the statistical correlation between the memory, language and phonology in Persian language preschoolers. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 40 normal preschoolers from Tehran. Phonological working memory tests (Digits Recall and Non-word Repetition: NWR), phonological awareness and language development tests were used. Results: There was a strong positive correlation between phonological working memory (Digits Recall and NWR) and the phonological awareness total score. Also there was a correlation between phonological awareness and language development scores. In spite of positive correlation between language development and Digits Recall, there wasn’t any relationship between language proficiency and NWR. Conclusion: Results showed positive statistical correlation between phonological awareness, phonological working memory and language proficiency in normal Persian speaking children. And also language skills and memory can work as predictors for reading skills in children