L'italiano L2 e le regole che non si insegnano a scuola

A number of topics in Italian L2 grammar are notoriously difficult to acquire, even for students with an overall good level of proficiency. Some constructions are clearly ungrammatical; others sound odd and betray a non-native use of the form. This paper examines two of such examples − the use of definite determiners with plural nouns in (preverbal) subject position and the alternation of null and overt subject pronouns − and it compares and combines insights from generative grammar and rules of normative grammar taught in school. The aim of this approach is twofold: First, to understand why these constructions may be difficult to acquire for a second language learner. Second, to encourage awareness about variation in language and to provide new insights for second language teaching.