Syntax: Transformations: Wh-Questions
In most languages, content question words (referred to as WH-words in English) undergo some kind of movement in the formation of questions. This is due to that fact that Spec CP is marked with a [+/- wh] feature that attracts WH elements. For this exercise, we will be addressing only WH elements that are found as verbal arguments in deep structure (such as those found in the direct object position rather than in adjunct positions). Sentences that undergo WH movement in English will also be subject to MOVE AUX (including do-insertion where necessary).
Example (AUX in italics, WH word in bold, 'e' represents an empty space from which an element has moved):
Deep structure: Lois has bought what?
MOVE AUX: Has Lois e bought what?
Wh movement: What has Lois e bought e?
For each of the sentences below, draw the tree using arrows to show both auxiliary and Wh movement. Answers are in both simple and X-bar form.
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Your answers are highlighted below.





