Abstract
This article represents the first attempt to formulate a hypothetical sequence for German case acquisition by Dutch‐speaking learners on the basis of Processability Theory (PT). It will be argued that case forms emerge corresponding to a development from lexical over phrasal to interphrasal morphemes. This development, however, is subject to a correction factor due to the principle of direct mapping. In addition, the unmarked alignment hypothesis allows for a differentiation between similar case contexts (e.g., preverbal and postverbal nominative or accusative arguments). A cross‐sectional study was performed in order to examine whether the German case system is indeed acquired according to the hypotheses derived from PT. “Fill‐in‐the‐blanks‐exercises” were analyzed from 704 Flemish second‐language learners of German. The results of the study do indeed suggest a development in line with PT.
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.
