This study researches use of \"this\" and \"that\" by native speakers of English and non-native speakers of English. The research suggests that definitions and rules traditionally found in dictionaries and which are taught in ESL classes are not descriptive of use in a real world situation. The research suggests the possibility that the use of these rules in ESL teaching may lead to speech that is not native-like.

The final appendix begins the Story of Cathie as a Bibliographic addition.