| This study examines knowledge of the use of Japanese case particles by English speaking adult learners. The study investigates which case particles are more accurately expressed than others, and possible factors for this difference. It also examines the relationship between learners' own perceptions of difficulty and their accuracy in using the particles, and finally, the types of rationales that learners employ when they choose a particle.; The study used cloze test and verbal protocol for the investigation. The result showed learners had difficulty identifying particles with multi function-form relationship, non-prototypical use, and use that is distinct from their native language. As for these difficult particles, there was a non-proportional relationship between learners' perception of difficulty and accuracy in their use. There were three kinds of strategies learners employ depending on the nature of particles: the use of intuition, the use of English translation, and the application of Japanese linguistic knowledge. |
