AFL 1501
ASSESSMENT 6
SEKGOTHE GRACIOUS ANGEL
STUDENT NUMBER: 16791304
GROUP NUMBER: 56T
Submitted in Partial fulfilment of the requirements for the Degree:
LLB
In the
DEPARTMENT OF AFRICAN LANGUAGES
UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH AFRICA
(ASSIGNMENT NUMBER: 688684)
TA:Dr Seduduzo Pretty Nkosi
Lecturer: Ms J Boshomane
13 NOVEMBER 2023
Table of Contents
1. Introduction:………………………………………………..……………………………….1
2. First Portfolio Activity:………………………………………………..…………………..2
o Task 1: Screenshot
o Task 2: First Portfolio Activity Reflection
3. [Second Portfolio Activity:………………………………………………........……….3-4
o Task 1: Family Tree
o Task 2: Clan Names and Totems
4. [Third Portfolio Activity:…………………………………………………..……………5-6
o Task 1: Cultural Ceremonies and Occasions
5. [Fourth Portfolio Activity:………………………………………………....……………7-8
o Task 1: Ubuntu and Helping Others
o Task 2: Final Reflection
6. Conclusion:………………………………………………..………………………………..9
7. Bibliography:..…………………………………………...……..….………….……….….10
8. ACADEMIC HONESTY DECLARATION:………….…….………......……....……...…11
1
Introduction:
In the course of this reflective assessment, I will delve into personal experiences and
explorations centered around cultural ceremonies, volunteering, and the profound
impact of language on identity and behavior. The journey will encompass the richness
of cultural traditions, the significance of altruism in the concept of Ubuntu, and the
transformative lessons learned from a volunteering experience. Through these
reflections, we aim to unravel the intricate threads that bind us to our roots, the
importance of communal support, and the dynamic influence of language on shaping
our understanding of self and others.
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1. First Portfolio Activity
Task 1: Screenshot
Task 2: First Portfolio Activity Reflection
My names are Gracious Angel Sekgothe, looking back on my language journey after
digging into AFL1501, my linguistic perspective have grown. I'm from Tshwane in
Gauteng, and the way I see my South African languages, like Sepedi, English,
Afrikaans, Zulu, and Tswana, has changed as I've learned more.
Before, I called my languages a vibrant tapestry, but now I see them as a changing
mosaic, shaped by my experiences and what I've learned in AFL1501. Sepedi is still
super important to me, connecting me with family and community. And now, with
AFL1501, English's role in legal talk has become more clear as I tackle the ins and outs
of legal principles at UNISA.
Picking UNISA for my LLB studies was a smart move because of its flexible learning.
AFL1501 has shown me how crucial language is in legal stuff, making me more
confident in handling legal talk. In this new version of my story, my language journey
isn't just a regular fabric; it's a growing mosaic that changes with each step in my
studies.
AFL1501 has opened my eyes to the language side of law, making me see how
important it is in shaping legal identities. As I keep going in my studies, I'm excited to
see how my language skills and understanding of law will keep growing. It's all part of
showing the world who I'm becoming.
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2. Second Portfolio Activity
Task 1: Family Tree
Grandparents
(Grandfather) Mogolo Brandon Sekgothe (Grandfather) Motla Derrick Ndlovu
(Grandmother) Modipadi Doreen Mahlo (Grandmother) Meiki Queen Mohale
Parents
(Uncle)Freeman Sekgothe (Uncle) John Ndlovu
(Aunt)Nelly Sekgothe (Aunt) Doreen Ndlovu
(Father) Mogolo Titus Sekgothe (Mother) Lethabo Johanna Ndlovu
Siblings
(Sister) Tsepang Queen Sekgothe (Sister) Lerato Catherine Sekgothe
(Brother) Mogolo Sean Sekgothe (Me) Gracious Angel Sekgothe
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Task 2: Clan names and Totems
a. I chose to gather information on the Zulu culture due to its rich history and
significant influence in South Africa.
b. I selected the Zulu clan name "Ndlovu" (meaning elephant) because of its
prominence and symbolic significance in Zulu culture.
c. During my research, I discovered that the Zulu people associate the elephant with
strength, power, and loyalty. The clan's totem often reflects qualities admired by the
community, fostering a deep connection between individuals and their heritage.
d. The Ndlovu clan's name and totem trace back to historical leaders who displayed
qualities akin to those of elephants. The totem serves as a symbol of unity, emphasizing
the importance of familial and community bonds.
e. In Zulu culture, addressing an elder with the term "Gogo" (grandmother) or "Baba"
(father) is considered respectful, reflecting the reverence for wisdom and experience.
f. Western beliefs have influenced Zulu cultural identity through changes in clothing,
education, and social norms. However, the core values and traditions, including clan
affiliations, remain resilient.
g. References
Morris, Donald R. (1965). The Washing of the Spears: “A History of the Rise of the Zulu
Nation under Shaka and its Fall in the Zulu War of 1879”, New York: Simon and
Schuster, 20-35.
Guy, Jeff. (1974), The Destruction of Black Civilization: Great Issues of a Race from
4500 B.C. to 2000 A.D, Chicago: Third World Press, 67.
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3. Third Portfolio Activity
Task 1: Cultural Ceremonies and Occasions
a. I chose to explore a traditional South African Zulu wedding ceremony. The
ceremony typically begins with a series of activities symbolizing the union of two
families. It starts with the groom's family sending a delegation to the bride's family to
officially request her hand in marriage. This is followed by negotiations and the
exchange of gifts, symbolizing the merging of two families into one. The wedding day
itself involves vibrant celebrations, including traditional dances, feasts, and symbolic
ceremonies such as the tying of the marital knot. The attire is what portrays diversity
and cultural pride of both the bride and the groom.
b. The tying of the marital knot holds special significance for me. This act symbolizes
the unity and inseparable bond formed between the couple. The act of physically tying
the knot represents the commitment to facing life's journey together, navigating
challenges hand in hand.
c. Cultural ceremonies are crucial because they serve as anchors to our roots,
preserving traditions and reinforcing a sense of identity. They connect us to our
heritage, creating a fabric of shared experiences that shape who we are and where we
come from.
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d. Picture Reference:
The attached picture captures the poignant moment of tying the marital knot during a
South African Zulu wedding ceremony, symbolizing the unity and commitment between
the couple. The attire stands out for me.
https://m.facebook.com/story.php?
story_fbid=pfbid035Bb9WoeeJWgCKTAcCoDKZ2qofQYBygFyYM1rYdSKiG9Bwj2FmXi
U5ZCkpneE63Z6l&id=1588520728079579&mibextid=CDWPTG
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4. Fourth Portfolio Activity
Task 1: Ubuntu and Helping Others
a. Ubuntu, in my understanding, embodies the philosophy of interconnectedness
and communal well being. It emphasizes the idea that our humanity is
intrinsically tied to the well being of others.
b. Yes, donating or volunteering is a clear manifestation of Ubuntu. By actively
contributing to the welfare of others, we acknowledge our interconnectedness
and express a shared responsibility for the collective well being of our
community.
c. Yes, I would donate to a stranger on the street. The spirit of Ubuntu encourages
a compassionate response to the needs of others, irrespective of our familiarity
with them.
d. Donating or volunteering is essential as it fosters a sense of social responsibility,
strengthens community bonds, and addresses systemic issues. It contributes to
the creation of a more equitable and compassionate society.
e. One time, in the winter, I helped out in my neighbourhood to assist people
without homes. We collected warm clothes and made a place for them to stay
where they could get hot meals and things they needed. I gave warm clothes and
helped set up the place. It wasn't just about giving things; we talked to the
people, heard their stories, and tried to support them during a tough time.
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f. The help we gave meant a lot to the people we assisted. It wasn't just about
warm clothes and a place to stay; it also made them feel like they were part of a
group, and it made them happy. Many said thanks not just for the things we gave
but for recognizing they are people too. One man shared his story and said that
just having someone listen and care made a big difference. It gave him a break
from his tough daily life. The help we offered gave a bit of hope and showed that
the community cared about them.
Personally, this experience stayed with me. Seeing how strong and thankful
these people were, even in hard times, showed me how important it is to
understand and help each other. It made me believe that even small acts of
kindness, like helping or giving, help build a kind and connected community. It
wasn't just about things; it touched on how important it is to respect each other
and share the responsibility of looking out for one another. This experience was
humbling and reminded me that even small efforts can create positive changes
for people and communities that need help.
Task 2: Final Reflection
In my journey through this module, I've gained profound insights into how language
shapes not only communication but also identity and behaviour. I've come to appreciate
the intricate connection between language and culture, realizing that it is not merely a
tool for expression but a powerful force that influences our perceptions and interactions.
Examples from the module, such as the exploration of cultural ceremonies, have
illustrated how language intricately weaves into our rituals, preserving traditions and
fostering a sense of belonging.
The significance of core concepts like Language, Identity, interpersonal relationships,
and Ubuntu has become clearer. Language, as a dynamic force, moulds our identities
and influences the dynamics of our relationships. The module has challenged me to
critically examine my own language use, prompting a shift in how I express myself
within various contexts.
Ubuntu, with its emphasis on interconnectedness and communal well being, has left a
lasting impact. The exploration of Ubuntu has reshaped my perspective on altruism,
emphasizing the importance of contributing to the greater good. The
interconnectedness of language, identity, and Ubuntu has become evident, highlighting
the responsibility we have towards each other as members of a shared humanity.
Overall, this module has been a transformative journey, unveiling the intricate layers of
language and its profound influence on who we are and how we engage with the world.
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Conclusion:
In concluding this reflective assessment, the tapestry of experiences woven through
cultural ceremonies, volunteering endeavours, and the exploration of language's
influence becomes apparent. Cultural ceremonies emerge as pivotal in preserving
identity and fostering a sense of belonging, while volunteering encapsulates the
essence of Ubuntu, emphasizing the interconnectedness of humanity. The exploration
of language unravels its role as a dynamic force, shaping not only communication but
also personal identity and behaviour. As the threads of cultural appreciation, altruism,
and linguistic understanding intertwine, the overarching lesson becomes clear, our
actions, words, and cultural expressions define not only who we are but also the
compassionate communities we aspire to build.
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Bibliography:
Article:
Saville Troike, M. (1982). The Ethnography of Communications: An Introduction.
Oxford: Basil Blackwell.
Cham, J. (2015). Email Etiquette: Guidelines for Writing to Your Professors. Retrieved
from https://marktomforde.com/academic/undergraduates/Email Etiquette.html
Emeagwali, G. (2003). African Indigenous Knowledge Systems (AIK): Implications for
the Curriculum. In Falola, T. (Ed.), Ghana in Africa and The World: Essays in Honor of
Adu Boahen. New Jersey: Africa World Press.
Ntshinga, T.N. (1998). The Dynamics of the Proverb. Unpublished D.Litt. et Phil Thesis.
Port Elizabeth: University of Port Elizabeth.
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ACADEMIC HONESTY DECLARATION
Declaration:
1. I understand what academic dishonesty entails and am aware of Unisa’s policies in
this regard.
2. I declare that this assignment is my own, original work. Where I have used
someone else’s work I have indicated this by using the prescribed style of referencing.
Every contribution to, and quotation in, this assignment from the work or works of other
people has been referenced according to this style.
3. I have not allowed, and will not allow, anyone to copy my work with the intention of
passing it off as his or her own work.
4. I did not make use of another student’s work and submitted it as my own.
Name: Sekgothe Gracious Angel
Id Number / Passport Number: 8810225725088
Student Number: 16791304
Date: 14 November 2023
