SED2601 ASSIGNMENT 3 2024 UNIQUE NUMBER:156196
Assessment 03 (Paragraph-type questions)
o This assessment is compulsory.
o Contribution towards year mark: 40% Prescribed textbook (SoE):
Chapters 3 and 4, and recommended readings
Wrap-around guide for this module
Question 1
1.1 Discuss what is meant by the following:
a) Modern democracy (3)
Modern democracy refers to a system of government in which the people have a say
in the decisions that affect their lives. It is characterized by free and fair elections,
political participation, protection of human rights, and the rule of law.
b) Citizenship education (3)
Citizenship education is the process of educating individuals about their rights,
responsibilities, and duties as citizens of a particular country. It aims to encourage
active participation in civic and political life, and to promote values such as tolerance,
equality, and respect for diversity.
1.2 Discuss the two types of citizenship education, and indicate which
approach (active or passive) you think is the best one for learners.
Substantiate your answer. (10)
There are two main types of citizenship education: active and passive.
Active citizenship education focuses on empowering individuals to actively engage in
their community and participate in democratic processes. It includes teaching critical
thinking skills, promoting social activism, and encouraging participation in decision-
making processes. This approach emphasizes the importance of citizens taking an
active role in shaping their society and advocating for change.
Passive citizenship education, on the other hand, focuses on providing individuals
with knowledge about their rights and duties as citizens, without necessarily
encouraging them to actively participate in civic life. This approach may involve
teaching the legal and historical aspects of citizenship, but may not emphasize the
importance of active engagement in political and social issues.
In my opinion, the active approach to citizenship education is the best one for
learners. It empowers individuals to become informed, responsible, and engaged
citizens who are able to critically analyze and contribute to the society in which they
live. By promoting active participation and critical thinking, learners are better
equipped to address social issues, make informed decisions, and contribute to a
more just and equitable society.
, 1.3 Discuss the two main features of the apartheid state in South Africa. (4)
The two main features of the apartheid state in South Africa were racial segregation
and discrimination, and the enforcement of these laws through a system of strict
controls and regulations.
Racial segregation and discrimination were central to the apartheid state, which
legally classified people into different racial groups and enforced separate living
areas, schools, and public facilities for each group. This resulted in the widespread
marginalization and oppression of the non-white population, particularly black South
Africans.
The enforcement of these segregation laws was carried out through a system of
strict controls and regulations, which included the pass laws that required non-white
individuals to carry identification documents at all times, as well as restrictions on
movement and employment opportunities. This system of control was designed to
ensure the domination of the white minority and maintain the racial hierarchy
established by the apartheid state.
Overall, these two features of the apartheid state – racial segregation and
discrimination, and the enforcement of these laws through strict controls – were
fundamental to the oppressive and discriminatory nature of the regime.
Question 2
2.1 Explain why it is important that learners understand the notion of
democracy in the new South Africa (after apartheid). (6)
It is important for learners to understand the notion of democracy in the new South
Africa after apartheid because it helps them to understand their rights and
responsibilities as citizens. It also allows them to actively participate in the decision-
making processes of their society, helping to build a more inclusive and
representative democracy. Understanding democracy also promotes tolerance and
respect for the diverse backgrounds and opinions of others, which is crucial for
fostering social cohesion and peaceful coexistence in a multi-cultural society such as
South Africa.