"In" is one of the most important and difficult prepositions for Chinese Mongolian English learners. Based on the cognitive linguistics theory and corpus method, the thesis analyzes the semantic difference of preposition"in"between Mongolian English learners and native speakers. The results show that(1) Mongolian English learners underuse spatial sense while overuse temporal sense and metaphorical sense.(2) As for ten semantic groups, Mongolian English learners overuse eight semantic groups in which six groups have a significant relationship.
This paper provides an overview of the present practice in EFL(English as a Foreign Language) teaching in Inner Mongolia, and considers the implications of the popular Communicative Approach in the Western world. Besides the several sources drawn in this article, I have also added my own experience in EFL learning and teaching, first as a student for four years and then as a teacher of English. for 11 years in Inner Mongolia Teachers’ University (IMTU). The possible application of the Communicative Approach in EFL teaching in Inner Mongolia is to be discussed.
