Class 9-2: Articles
The smoke is not a good sign.
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Article: The |
Rules: “The” is used in front of the noun of the sentence. “The” is specific. When using the, you are using an exact subject. “The” is not general. |
Examples: 1. The dog is eating. 2. The Statue of Liberty is green. |
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A |
“A” is used in front of the noun in the sentence. “A” is general. “A” means everyone or everything, not just a specific person or thing. |
1. A dog has four legs. 2. A man has a nose. |
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Noncount Nouns |
When noncount nouns are the subject of the sentence, and they are saying a generalization (not specific), do not use “the” or “a” in front of the noun. |
Incorrect: Correct: Apples are red. |
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The and Noncount Nouns |
If you are being specific, then use “the” in front of the noun. |
Incorrect: Apples are red. Correct: The apples are red. |
Continued
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Article: A/An |
Rules: If the first letter of the noun starts with a vowel, use “an.“ If the first letter of the noun starts with a consonant use “a.“ |
Examples: 1. An apple 2. An office3. A desk 4. A book |
Helpful Tip
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It is always important to tell the listener or reader how many of the noun, you mean. |
1. An Apple 2. Apple(s) 3. Several apples 4. A few apples 5. The apple |
Exercise
Exercise 1: Choose the correct article for each sentence.
1. Question: Do you have the homework I assigned yesterday? | Answer: Yes, I do.
2. Question: Do you have ________ pencil? | Answer: Yes, I do.
3. Question: Do you have ________ idea? | Answer: Yes, I absolutely do.
4. Question: Do you have ________ soda? | Answer: Yes, we do.
5. Question: Do you have ________ dog? | Answer: Yes, I do.
6. Question: Does she work in ________ office? | Answer: Yes, she does.
7. Question: Is he ________ orphan? | Answer: No, he isn’t.
8. Question: Do you have ________ pencil? | Answer: No, I don’t have pencil.
9. Question: Do you have ________ book you borrowed? | Answer: Yes, I have the book.
10. Question: Can I use ________ computer? | Answer: Yes, you can use computer.
11. Question: Can I have ________ money you owe me? | Answer: Yes, you can.
