An operational definition of "verbal aspect" is offered and related to the foreground-background theory. Basic ideas leading to a method of teaching aspectual distinctions in English are outlined. (approximately 65 references) (LB)

Aspectual functions performed by the various past tense forms do not overlap in French and English. Difficulties compounded by inaccurate and oversimplified explanations are noted, and different functions are discussed. (LB)

An instructional technique that enlisted natural language processes by ensuring that grammatical markers made semantic sense was examined to determine its usefulness in helping adult Anglophone classroom learners to make more accurate online aspectual choices in past tense oral narrative. (32 references) (LB)

Applying generative morphophonological analysis to the teaching of French morphology, this paper proposes a cohesive and systematic presentation of inflection based on the spoken language. It argues that French verb and adjective stems fall into two classes, variable and invariable, and that a single morphological rule accounts for alternations of…

A theoretical discussion is offered on whether the subjunctive in the Romance languages is by nature thematic, as suggested in previous studies. English and Spanish samples are used to test the hypothesis; one conclusion is that the subjunctive seems to offer speaker-related information and may express the intensity of the speaker's involvement.…

In an examination of the complex interaction of the linguistic devices employed in the expression of temporality, eight adult English-as-a-Second-Language learners participated in a study of time adverbials and verbal morphology. (19 references) (LB)

Describes rules for the use and interpretation of "verbally determinate ellipsis" involving the English verb group. Discussion covers: verbal determinacy and indeterminacy; verb group vs. verb phrase; the verb group as a five-part system; verb group echoing vs. auxiliary contrasting ellipsis; passive auxiliary; interpretation rules;…

A discussion of the perception and use of tense in Moroccan Arabic proposes that the language expresses verb aspect much more readily than tense. Implications for teaching Moroccan Arabic as a second language are discussed, and an analysis of the system of tense and aspect in the language is presented. (MSE)

A study is reported that provides a remedial pedagogic grammar for Arabs learning English as a Second Language. Focus is on written English and written Arabic. Suggestions for teaching are provided. (21 references) (LB)

Hungarian students have difficulty with the English verb, particularly the perfect and passive aspects and word order. The points of conflict are assumed to originate in the differences in linguistic modes of thought in Hungarian and English, suggesting that linguistic mode of thought should be taught alongside grammar and vocabulary. (MSE)