Use of Articles
The use of articles (a, an and the) is sometimes regarded as one of the most challenging aspects in the English language, and their difficulty arises from the subtle changes in the meaning caused by their use or omission. Perhaps no one fully understands their usage, but this does not stop us from trying to understand some their intricacies and develop our skills in using them.
This classification, or rule system, presented in this online module provides a practical approach to the use of articles. It aims to help you in understanding how, why and when to use a, an and the (and when not to use them). This module is based on the system provided in
Huckin, T. N., & Olsen, L. A. (1991). Technical writing and professional communication for nonnative speakers of English. 2nd Edition. McGraw-Hill.Additional reading materials
Similar contents presented in the videos can be found in written form at the Academic Writing in English (AWE) website. See links below for main topics
Study materials: videos and quizzes
The module consists of eight videos and sixteen exercises (quizzes). To pass this module, you need to watch all the videos and complete all the exercises. Each video and exercise builds on the contents covered earlier. Successful completion each quiz (65%) allows you to continue to the next activity.
Estimated workload: 3-5 hours
- View
This video gives an introduction to the use of articles.
This video explains the rule 2 for using or omitting indefinite articles.
This video explains the distinction between countable and uncountable nouns and how it affects the use of articles.
This video explains the difference between unique and non-unique referencing, as well as discusses special adjectives and nouns.
This video explains the concepts of previous mention and post-modifiers.
This video explains the concepts of pre-modifiers and appositives.
This video explain how the writer's shared or implied knowledge affects the use of articles.
This video explains how the articles can be used in the context of generic meaning.
CONGRATULATIONS! YOU HAVE REACHED THE END OF THE ONLINE MODULE OF THE USE OF ARTICLES.