English Home Language
As English is the language of instruction it is imperative that the language is taken seriously and given the respect that is due to it.
Together with the English teacher, your daughter will explore the wonderful world of the imagination and learn how to appreciate the richness of the language and to become functionally literate, which is a life skill she will take with her into her adult life.
Unfortunately learners have the mistaken perception that as they are English speaking they do not have to work at or put effort into this subject as they will automatically pass. Nothing could be further from the truth.
English is the only subject which has to be passed in order for the learner to be promoted. The pass mark is 40% but if the learner hopes to gain entry into university, she is expected to get at least 50% in her home language
The standard of the IEB English exams is very high. The 400 marks which make up the final English mark in Matric is comprised of the following
- 100 for oral work (this involves reading seven books and a variety of oral exercises);
- 100 for the Reading paper (comprehension, summary, language and poetry);
- 100 for the Writing paper (Shakespeare novel and two pieces of Transactional writing); and
- 100 marks for portfolio work. The portfolio is made up of:
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Reading is one of the most important, if not the most important of daily skills which needs to be nurtured from a young age. This is evident as it is from reading that one extends one’s vocabulary, comprehension skills and general knowledge. A large number of English skills are used across the curriculum so therefore attention to English will have a positive impact on all subjects. A weak reader is not only handicapped in English but in all her academic subjects.
Grade 10 to 12 is the Senior phase of the school. From Grade 10 the learners are geared towards their final Matric exams. There is a big adjustment in Grade 10 in content, pace and homework to prepare the learners for their final year of school. This is a steady acquisition of both the knowledge and skills needed to prepare them sufficiently. Parents must be cognizant of the fact that this is an ongoing process and that the learners cannot afford high absenteeism and large gaps in knowledge. The level of questioning requires the learner to develop lateral thinking skills and explore the connotations and implications of words. Learners are also required to demonstrate an ability to read non-verbal texts and apply their knowledge to a wide range of source material.
Parents must be aware that focus and a strong work ethic are essential in the process of the learners hope to make the grade.
The I.E.B is focussed substantially on current affairs and relies on the learners’ ability to draw on their general knowledge. With this as our motivation, we strongly advise the learners to keep abreast of the world around them. This will enable them to debate, to substantiate their views and to grasp certain thematic and topical issues.
Hopefully with your, the parents’ support, and our guidance your daughter will become a free thinking, literate and thoroughly capable woman.