Acquisition of Tense Markers in Typically Developing Malayalam Speaking Children

Abstract

This study aims to establish a descriptive data on acquisition of tense markers in typically developing 4-7 years old Malayalam speaking children by describing the types and tense markers and comparing the presence of tense markers across the age groups. Thirty normal school going children were grouped according to age basis and provided with the picture description task. 10 picture cards for each tense were used for sample collection. Responses were marked on work sheet separately and each session was recorded for further detailed analysis. Result indicated highly significant scores among tense markers across age groups. The children in older group performed well compared to younger group in all tense markers. In the current study it is been found that as the age increased, the ability to use correct tense forms has been improved.