What you will learn in Grade 5
Today's goal: Make article choices based on meaning, countability and established expressions.
A tiger is a wild animal. (general)
Use a/an when talking about one non-specific member of a group; use the for a specific one.
The tiger we saw was injured. (specific)
Use the when the listener or reader can identify the particular noun being discussed.
The Sun is a star. (unique)
Use the with unique things when the context identifies one, such as the Sun.
Honesty is important. (abstract idea)
Abstract ideas used in a general sense often do not need an article.
Core idea
Read the explanation, study the examples and explain the idea in your own words.
Learn with examples
a tiger
“a tiger” introduces a noun in a general sense.
the tiger
“the tiger” points to a particular noun the reader can identify.
the Sun
“the Sun” refers to something unique or one of its kind.
Honesty
“Honesty” shows a case where no article is needed before the noun.
See the skill in action
Quick check
Why is there no article before 'Honesty' in a general statement?
Practice like a learner
- Choose a/an for a profession.
- Choose the/no article for a general abstract idea.
- Correct: The honesty is important.
- Write a general statement using 'a'.
- Write a sentence where the meaning changes between a and the.
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