Errors in the written production of Maltese students of German with a special focus on the use of prepositions

Abstract

This study describes and analyses a number of errors made by Maltese post-secondary students of German, with a special focus on the use of prepositions with the aim of helping teachers understand the difficulties that students encounter when learning German prepositions and improve teaching materials and methodologies. The case system in German and the prepositions and their uses are reviewed. The sample of examination essays and the questionnaire, which was given to the subjects, are discussed. An error analysis of 55 examination essays reveals patterns of errors in the choice of prepositions, case declensions after prepositions, omission of prepositions and superfluous use of prepositions. An explanation of the errors provides a basis for teachers to deal with such errors. Finally, general conclusions about the results are drawn.