To manufacture a memory device, a gate dielectric layer is formed over a semiconductor body and a gate electrode layer is formed over the gate dielectric layer. The gate electrode layer is structured to form a gate electrode with sidewalls. An etching process is performed to remove parts of the gate dielectric layer from beneath the gate electrode on opposite sides of the gate electrode. Boundary layers, e.g., oxide layers, are formed on an upper surface of the semiconductor body and a lower surface of the gate electrode adjacent where the gate dielectric has been removed thereby leaving spaces. Charge-trapping layer material can then be deposited to fill the spaces. Source and drain regions are then formed in the semiconductor body adjacent the gate electrode.