Abstract
This paper examines the acquisition of English articles by native speakers of Serbian, a language which has no article system. Data from a translation task, performed by four proficiency groups are presented to demonstrate that, contrary to previous research, learners do not associate articles with either ‘hearer knowledge’ or ‘specificity of referent’ (Huebner 1983, Master 1990, Tarone and Parish 1989, Thomas 1989). Rather, they establish non-target form–meaning connections, where ‘the’ is associated with a discrete referent, and ‘a(n)’ with the individuation of non-discrete referents.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
