ESL Grammar: ARTICLES (a/an/the) – When to use “the” (3)

This ESL grammar lesson practices using the article “the” to identify specific nouns. After reading a sample conversation, students practice answering questions about specific nouns.

Articles are a fundamental part of English grammar, and mastering their use is crucial for ESL students. This lesson focuses on the three main articles: “a,” “an,” and “the,” helping students understand when and how to use them correctly. Whether you are teaching online or in-person, this comprehensive guide will enhance your students’ grasp of English articles, ensuring more accurate and fluent communication.

ESL Grammar: Understanding Articles: A, An, The

Articles are used to define nouns as specific or unspecific. There are two types of articles in English: definite and indefinite.

1. Definite Article:
   • The: Used to refer to specific or particular nouns. It indicates that the noun is something known to both the speaker and the listener.
     • Examples:
       • “Please pass the salt.”
       • “I saw the movie you recommended.”
2. Indefinite Articles:
   • A: Used before words that begin with a consonant sound. It refers to something unspecific or general.
     • Examples:
       • “I saw a dog in the park.”
       • “She is reading a book.”
   • An: Used before words that begin with a vowel sound. It also refers to something unspecific or general.
     • Examples:
       • “He ate an apple.”
       • “She needs an umbrella.”

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).