,You are teaching Grade 10 Physical Sciences at a
township school in Soweto. Your class of 45 learners
includes: • 20 learners who speak isiZulu as their
home language. • 15 learners who are Sesotho
speakers. • 5 learners who speak Xitsonga. • 5
learners who are immigrants from Zimbabwe and
speak Shona at home. The school's language of
instruction is English, but most learners use their
home languages in daily communication. You notice
that: • Learners struggle to understand scientific
terminology in English. • Some learners are hesitant
to participate in class discussions. • Written
assignments show understanding of concepts but
poor English expression. • Group work tends to
divide along language lines. • Parents' meetings are
challenging due to language barriers. Assessment
,Task: 1. Analyse the language barriers affecting
learning in this multicultural context. 2. Apply
relevant psychological theories to explain the impact
on learning. 3. Develop practical strategies that
utilize multilingualism as a resource. 4. Consider how
to involve parents despite language barriers.
1. Analysis of Language Barriers Affecting
Learning
The language barriers in this context stem from:
Language of instruction: English is not the
home language of most learners, leading to
challenges in comprehension, particularly with
technical terminology in Physical Sciences.
Cultural and linguistic segregation: Group
work dividing along language lines reflects a
tendency for learners to feel more comfortable in
their home language groups. This limits
exposure to English and interaction across
cultural boundaries.
Hesitation in participation: Learners are
reluctant to speak in English, possibly due to
, fear of making mistakes or being judged, which
reduces active learning opportunities.
Written expression: While learners may
understand scientific concepts, their English
proficiency affects their ability to articulate
ideas clearly in assessments.
Parent engagement: Language differences
between teachers and parents hinder effective
communication, limiting parental involvement in
their children’s education.
2. Psychological Theories and Their Application
Vygotsky’s Sociocultural Theory: Learning
occurs in a social context through interaction.
Language is a critical tool for cognitive
development. The learners’ difficulties in using
English limit their ability to engage in
meaningful learning experiences.
Cummins’ Theory of Language Acquisition:
Distinguishes between Basic Interpersonal
Communication Skills (BICS) and Cognitive
Academic Language Proficiency (CALP). Most
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