L2 acquisition of Spanish telic se constructions

This thesis examines the acquisition of the aspectual properties of the Spanish se in transitive constructions by L2 learners of Spanish. Based on a parameterized distinction of the telic features in English and Spanish, this study investigates whether second language (L2) learners are able to reset the aspectual value of the English parameter to that of Spanish in their interlanguage grammar. Results indicate that L2 learners' responses to a picture interpretation task vary according to proficiency levels. Low-intermediate and intermediate learners did not differentiate between telic and atelic constructions whereas advanced learners successfully acquired the telic properties of the transitive se constructions. Results were interpreted in the light of current theories of second language acquisition and the mental representation of aspect in interlanguage.

Grantor dc:publisher

University of North Texas

Year dc:date

2000

Author dc:creator

• Suárez Cepeda, Sonia

Contributors dc:contributor

• Eubank, Lynn
• Ross, John Robert, 1938-

• Spanish language -- Study and teaching -- English speakers.
• Second language acquisition.
• Spanish language
• language acquisition
• second language learners
• aspectual properties
• transitive constructions

Statement dc:rights

• Public
• Copyright
• Suárez Cepeda, Sonia
• Copyright is held by the author, unless otherwise noted. All rights reserved.

Language dc:language

English

Identifier

oclc: 47566270
untcat: b2304436
https://digital.library.unt.edu/ark:/67531/metadc2596/
ark: ark:/67531/metadc2596

OAI identifier oai:identifier

info:ark/67531/metadc2596