ESL Grammar: SINGULAR NOUNS with a/an

This ESL grammar lesson introduces the concept of singular nouns and when to use the articles a/an. Students then practice writing “a” or “an” before various singular nouns.

Mastering the use of “a” and “an” with singular nouns is a vital step in learning English. These indefinite articles are used to indicate non-specific items and are essential for both written and spoken English. This lesson on using “a” and “an” with singular nouns is designed to help ESL students understand and apply these articles correctly. Ideal for both online and in-person classes, this lesson provides clear explanations and practical exercises.

ESL Grammar: Understanding “A” and “An”

• A: Used before words that begin with a consonant sound. For example, “a cat,” “a dog,” “a university” (because “university” starts with a “yu” sound).
• An: Used before words that begin with a vowel sound. For example, “an apple,” “an elephant,” “an hour” (because “hour” starts with an “ow” sound).

ESL Grammar: When to Use “A” and “An”

A: Use “a” before singular nouns that start with a consonant sound:

“a book”

“a car”

“a house”

“a European country” (because “European” starts with a “yu” sound)

An: Use “an” before singular nouns that start with a vowel sound:

“an orange”

“an igloo”

“an umbrella”

“an honest person” (because “honest” starts with an “on” sound)

This beginner-level ESL grammar lesson on nouns is perfect for both online and in-person classes, offering diverse content to suit any learning environment. Explore this and many similar grammar lessons for all levels on our page of ESL grammar lessons.

This lesson is available for free download, and you can download many more English grammar lessons focusing on parts of speech just like this in our comprehensive, beginner-level ESL grammar textbook Great, Great Grammar! (Book 1: Parts of Speech).