An investigation of the use of Zulu as the language of learning and teaching in foundation phase of schools in Gauteng East district

• Main Author: Zikalala, Ntombintombi Alice
• Other Authors: Taole, M. J.
• Format: Others
• Language: en
• Published: 2014
• Subjects: Language of learning and teaching; Foundation phase; Language diversity; Department of Education; Home language; Multicultural society; School governing body; Ethnic background; Learning and teaching resources; Parent involvement; Language policies; 372.60968224; Zulu language > Study and teaching (Elementary) > South Africa > Ekurhuleni; Communicative competence in children > South Africa > Ekurhuleni
• Online Access: Zikalala, Ntombintombi Alice (2014) An investigation of the use of Zulu as the language of learning and teaching in foundation phase of schools in Gauteng East district, University of South Africa, Pretoria, <http://hdl.handle.net/10500/14077>; http://hdl.handle.net/10500/14077

According to the South African Schools Act no 86 or 1994, school governing bodies determine the official language used as Language of Learning and Teaching (LoLT) in public schools. Black community primary schools use home language in the Foundation Phase, and switch to English from the fourth grade. This study investigates Zulu as LoLT in the Foundation Phase in selected township primary schools in Gauteng East District. A qualitative inquiry used semi-structured interviews to collect data from Grade Three teachers. Findings were that educators welcomed use of learner’s Home Language as LoLT; due to diverse linguistic backgrounds of teachers and learners, Zulu was not used effectively in classrooms; code switching to English was prevalent; parent involvement was poor due to parents’ lack of Zulu proficiency and learning and teaching materials were mainly in English. The review of school language policies and the provision of multiple medium classes to accommodate language diversity were recommended. === Educational Studies === M. Ed. (Early Childhood Development)