Learning objectives
- Recognise the form and meaning of a, an, the and zero article.
- Use a, an, the and zero article in controlled A1 sentences.
- Identify and correct common beginner errors.
- Apply the concept in a short personal or everyday context.
A, an, the and zero article
Use basic English articles accurately with singular, plural and uncountable nouns.
Grammar rules
- Use a before a singular countable noun beginning with a consonant sound.
- Use an before a singular countable noun beginning with a vowel sound.
- Use the when the listener knows which person or thing is meant.
- Use no article for many general plural and uncountable nouns.
Examples
- I am a singer.
- I have an orange.
- The book is on the table.
- Books are useful.
- Love is important.
Common mistakes
- Using a form that does not agree with the subject or noun.
- Using the correct words in the wrong order.
- Adding or omitting a required auxiliary, article or preposition.
- Choosing a form that changes the intended meaning.
Revision notes
Review the rule, say the examples aloud, write two new examples and retake the concept test until you achieve at least 80%.
Validated question bank pending