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AFL1501-23-S2-107T - Assessment 06
By
19845928
Submitted in partial fulfilment of the requirements for the degree.
LLB
In the
DEPARTMENT OF AFRICAN LANGUAGES
SCHOOL OF LAW
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AFRICA
SUPERVISOR: PROF M SWANEPOEL
AFL1501: LANGUAGE THROUGH AN AFRICAN LENS
Assessment 0: Due 14/10/2023
13/10/2023
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Table of contents
Table of contents...................................................................................................................................2
Introduction...........................................................................................................................................3
First Portfolio Activity........................................................................................................................3
Task 1.............................................................................................................................................3
Task 2.............................................................................................................................................4
Second Portfolio Activity....................................................................................................................5
Task 1.............................................................................................................................................5
Task 2.............................................................................................................................................5
Third Portfolio Activity.......................................................................................................................7
Task 1.............................................................................................................................................7
4. Fourth Portfolio Activity.................................................................................................................9
Task 1.............................................................................................................................................9
Task 2...........................................................................................................................................10
Academic Honesty Declaration:...........................................................................................................12
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Introduction
I am AFL1501 student Blaine Page, and I am delighted to share my final report for
the second term of 2023. In this evaluation, I will reflect my journey based on this
model, my language background, my family history, my family background, culture,
ubuntu and what this class has done for me in terms of language, personally-
socially, the correct understanding of Ubuntu. This information is intended to show
how I understand the material and how this influences my thinking.
First Portfolio Activity
Task 1
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Task 2
Since my first impression at the beginning of the semester, I have gained a better
understanding of the language and culture thanks to the AFL1501 module. This
journey has increased my understanding of myself and others and expanded my
perspective on language and identity.
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Second Portfolio Activity
Task 1
Task 2
A. For this project, I entered the beautiful world of Zulu culture, one of South Africa's
most famous and historically rich cultures. My decision to explore Zulu culture
stemmed from my desire to understand a culture rooted in South African history and
culture.
b. I chose to focus on the "Mthembu" tribe in Zulu culture. The importance of the
Mthembu clan in Zulu culture lies in its historical position and association with
leadership and resilience. The name Mthembu is a story from the past and
represents a tribe famous for its contributions to Zulu culture and politics.
c. This research revealed interesting facts about Zulu clan names and totems that I
did not know before. For example, the totem of the Mthembu tribe is the majestic
"isiKhombisa", symbolizing strength, unity, and family relationships. Totems are a
visual representation of the importance of the Mthembu clan and add a layer of
symbolism to their culture.
d. Exploring the history of the Mthembu tribe tells a story that goes back centuries.
Descended from founder Mthembu kaMalandela, the clan played an important role in
the creation of the Zulu nation. Resilience was seen in difficult times and their
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commitment to preserving cultural heritage paved the way for the future of the
Mthembu tribe.
e. According to Zulu traditions, talking to elders is an art that embodies respect and
knowledge. Use honorifics like "Gogo" or "uMama" in front of their name to show
respect for their knowledge and experience. This practice reflects the cultural
emphasis on social relationships, a principle that has influenced how I think about
family and relationships.
f. The influence of Western religion on my own culture is evident in changes in
naming traditions and family structures. Although traditional Zulu culture is still
important, Western influence has brought changes to registration and family changes
that reflect the current state of South African culture.
g. Sources:
Ndlovu, M. (2021). "Symbolism of Totems in Zulu Tradition: Insights from the
Mthembu Clan." Journal of African Heritage, 12(2), 150-168.
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Third Portfolio Activity
Task 1
A. My research explores the complexities of Zulu weddings, a cultural celebration
that transcends the personal act. The festival is a fascinating blend of Zulu tradition,
celebration, and community unity, from a powerful beginning to a heartwarming
finish.
b. One of the most special aspects of the festival is the exchange of gifts between
families. I was very happy to be presented with "izibizo", a traditional gift that
expresses respect and gratitude. This exchange shows the interaction between
families and highlights the importance of respect in Zulu culture.
c. Cultural rituals are repositories of collective memory and heritage. They support
the continuation of traditions and values passed down from generation to generation.
It is very important to remember these rituals because they are the threads that
weave our identity together. They provide a sense of belonging by reminding us of
our roots and the collective bonds that make us great.
d.
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source: https://www.google.com/search?
q=zulu+wedding+ceremony&sca_esv=582374017&tbm=isch&sxsrf=AM9HkKkDfLw
QKEckQhUvU-
NgoEldxzLzkQ:1699992183892&source=lnms&sa=X&sqi=2&ved=2ahUKEwjBkfexp
MSCAxVcUkEAHYmjB9sQ_AUoAXoECAEQAw&biw=1536&bih=707&dpr=1.25#img
rc=abEUpKn4x9YSOM
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4. Fourth Portfolio Activity
Task 1
a. Ubuntu represents the interconnectedness of people. It goes beyond mere
interpretation; It embodies the concept of common humanity, which emphasizes
compassion, empathy, and responsibility. Drawing on the work of Mbigi (1997),
Ubuntu is not just a philosophy but a way of life that encourages a sense of
cooperation and harmony.
b. In the context of Ubuntu, the right to donate or volunteer is the real need of this
concept. By ensuring the well-being of others, we strengthen the ties that bind us
together as a people. This is based on the principle of Ubuntu that when we support
others, we as humans will flourish and create a harmonious society.
c. I will donate to strangers on the street because I believe that any act of kindness,
no matter how small, creates a good community. At its core, Ubuntu encourages us
to see the humanity in others and to act with kindness regardless of self-awareness.
d. The importance of public donation or volunteering is to promote social
responsibility and care. It not only meets current needs but also contributes to the
long-term health of society. This is in line with the Ubuntu philosophy, which
emphasizes community and collaboration.
e. I visit the area where the homeless squatter and give them a meal on days where
my work allows it. These experiences not only strengthened my understanding of the
needs of society, but also strengthened my understanding of social relationships.
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f. The impact of my volunteer work is clearly seen in improving the education of
those I help. Seeing the positive changes in their lives gives me a deep sense of
accomplishment and strengthens my belief in the transformative power of Ubuntu to
inspire action.
Task 2
I found myself transformed in my understanding of language, identity, relationships,
and Ubuntu. Exploring these fundamental concepts is a journey towards rich cultural
experiences, personal growth, and social harmony.
The mod demonstrates the role of words in communication, not only in
communication but also in the fabric of our identity. I gradually realized that words
are not teaching tools; It is a subtle mirror that shows the intricacies of our cultural
heritage, beliefs, and values. Through this experience, I became more aware of the
power of words in creating narratives that connect past and present.
Examining my family tree and tracing its branches back several generations made
me interested in the diversity of my culture. Rich in history and totemic symbols, the
Mthembu clan testifies to the durability of tradition and the resilience of the country.
Understanding my cultural heritage both deepens my connection with my heritage
and increases the pride of those before me in continuing that legacy.
Cultural ceremonies, especially Zulu weddings, provide insight into the rituals that
bind communities together. Gift exchanges and communal celebrations highlight the
importance of reciprocity in defining our collective identity. Thanks to this research, I
realized that these rituals are not just events, but narratives that connect us to the
past and take us to the future.
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Ubuntu, an abstract concept, has now become the basis of my interaction with
others. Human relationships, the concept of collaboration, and the importance of
promoting the well-being of others have become an important part of my worldview.
My experience with volunteering and volunteering is now integrated into the Ubuntu
ethos, emphasizing the impact of all actions on social relationships.
And throughout this journey, AFL1501 has not only expanded my understanding of
language, identity, relationships, and Ubuntu, but also equipped me with the culture
that will guide me in the future. I am grateful for the changed understanding received
and look forward to using this new knowledge to promote understanding, respect,
and unity among our diverse people.
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Academic Honesty Declaration:
1. I know that plagiarism means taking and using the ideas, writings, works or
inventions of another as if they were one’s own. I know that plagiarism not only
includes verbatim copying, but also the extensive use of another person’s ideas
without proper acknowledgement (which includes the proper use of quotation
marks). I know that plagiarism covers the use of material found in textual sources
and from the Internet.
2. I acknowledge and understand that plagiarism is wrong.
3. I understand that my research proposal must be accurately referenced.
4. This research proposal is my own work. I acknowledge that copying someone
else’s research, or part of it, is wrong and that submitting identical work to others
constitutes a form of plagiarism.
5. I have not allowed, nor will I in the future allow anyone to copy my work with the
intention of passing it off as their own work.
6. I confirm that I have read and understood UNISA’s Policy for Copyright and
Plagiarism - https://www.unisa.ac.za/sites/corporate/default/Apply-for-admission/
Master%27s-&-doctoral-degrees/Policies,-procedures-&-forms
Full Name: Blaine Page. Student No: 19845928
