THE CURRENT SITUATION OF MODAL PARTICLE USAGE IN COMMUNICATION BY CHINESE LANGUAGE STUDENTS AT BAC GIANG UNIVERSITY OF AGRICULTURE AND FORESTRY

Abstract

The study aims to investigate the current use of modal particles in the communication of students majoring in Chinese Language at Bac Giang Agriculture and Forestry University, thereby assessing the role of these particles in enhancing learning efficiency and communicative competence. The research was conducted using a questionnaire survey administered to 200 students from first to fourth year, combined with direct observation of the communicative practices of 40 specialized students. The focus was placed on commonly used modal particles such as “吗”, “吧”, “呢”, “了”, “的”, and “啊”. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and content analysis methods. The findings indicate that although students are aware of the functions of modal particles in Chinese communication, their actual usage remains limited, lacking flexibility and often contextually inappropriate. Several modal particles were found to be misused or overused, negatively impacting the effectiveness of communication. Based on these results, the study proposes several pedagogical solutions to improve students’ ability to use modal particles appropriately, thereby contributing to the development of their communication skills and academic performance.