The Department of Basic Education (DBE) wishes to clarify the position on teaching of language use, traditionally known as “grammar”, in home languages given the recent concerns raised in the media. The department welcomes the current public debate but wishes to point out the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) for FET language teaching is still being edited and will be released shortly.
The principle of language across the curriculum is regarded as essential in the promotion of language competency. This means that the emphasis on language is to be carried across the curriculum and this will indeed continue to be emphasised as good teaching practice in all classrooms in all subjects.
Current trends worldwide promote an integrated approach to the teaching of languages whereby grammar is not separated from writing and literature components either in teaching or assessment.
Concerns have recently been raised that grammar is no longer part of the curriculum. The DBE has noted the concerns and fears of some members of the public in respect of the teaching of grammar in Grades 10, 11 and 12. It wishes to re-emphasise that the teaching of grammar is an essential part of the Language Curriculum and will be reflected in the CAPS document.
We will continue to strive for a balanced approach that includes grammar and awareness of current approaches to teaching it. The format of the examinations has not been finalised but the concerns of teachers will inform the final decision.
Enquiries:
Granville Whittle
Cell: 072 148 9575
Source: Department of Basic Education
