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.
| Identifer | oai:union.ndltd.org:unt.edu/info:ark/67531/metadc2596 |
| Date | 08 1900 |
| Creators | Suárez Cepeda, Sonia |
| Contributors | Eubank, Lynn, Ross, John Robert, 1938- |
| Publisher | University of North Texas |
| Source Sets | University of North Texas |
| Language | English |
| Detected Language | English |
| Type | Thesis or Dissertation |
| Format | Text |
| Rights | Public, Copyright, Suárez Cepeda, Sonia, Copyright is held by the author, unless otherwise noted. All rights reserved. |
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