ASSESSMENT 2:
WRITTEN ASSESSMENT
100 marks
INSTRUCTIONS:
Assessment 2 consists of a number of questions. Answer all the questions. Number your answers
correctly and take note of the mark allocation for each question. We strongly recommend that you type
out your assessment 2. Submit your assessment 2 to Unisa in the same manner as you would submit
your other assignments (i.e. via myUnisa).
To answer assessment 2, you are requested to study Units 1 – The importance of listening
skills, and 2 – Promoting speaking skills using different language texts.
Remember to write all your particulars on the front cover. Also include the UNIQUE NUMBER for this
assignment.
Section A (20 marks)
Question 1 (5 marks)
Define the following terms with EXAMPLES using your own words.
1.1 Formal language
Formal language refers to a structured, precise mode of communication typically used in
professional or academic settings. It follows specific grammatical rules and vocabulary,
aiming for clarity and precision. Examples of formal language include legal documents,
scientific papers, and business reports. For instance, in a legal contract, phrases like
"whereas," "hereby," and "notwithstanding" are commonly used to establish legal
obligations with clarity and specificity.
1.2 Teaching Didactics
Teaching didactics involves the principles and methods employed in the process of
teaching and learning. It encompasses the strategies, techniques, and theories educators
use to convey information effectively to learners. An example of teaching didactics is the
use of scaffolding in education, where instructors provide structured support to help
students grasp new concepts gradually. This could involve breaking down complex tasks
into manageable steps or providing prompts to guide students through problem-solving
processes.
, Question 2 (10 marks)
2.1 One of the most important skills that a teacher needs to develop in learners
is the ability to listen well. Do you agree that listening skills assist in
effective communication?
Discuss with examples any two aspects of listening.
Yes, listening skills are essential for effective communication. They play a crucial role in
various aspects of interpersonal interactions, both in educational settings and beyond.
Active Listening:
Active listening involves fully concentrating on what is being said, understanding the
message, and responding appropriately. This aspect of listening is vital for teachers as it
allows them to engage with their students, show empathy, and foster a supportive
learning environment. For example, a teacher actively listens to a student sharing their
struggles with a particular concept. By maintaining eye contact, nodding, and
paraphrasing to confirm understanding, the teacher demonstrates genuine interest and
encourages further communication. Through active listening, the teacher can address the
student's concerns effectively and provide tailored support, ultimately enhancing the
student's learning experience.
Empathetic Listening:
Empathetic listening goes beyond simply hearing words; it involves understanding and
empathizing with the speaker's emotions and perspectives. This aspect of listening is
particularly important in educational settings where students may face challenges or
require emotional support. For instance, imagine a student confiding in their teacher
about feeling overwhelmed by academic pressure. By practicing empathetic listening, the
teacher acknowledges the student's feelings without judgment, validates their
experiences, and offers constructive guidance. Through empathetic listening, the teacher
not only builds trust and rapport with the student but also creates a safe space for open
communication and emotional expression. This, in turn, strengthens the teacher-student
relationship and contributes to the student's overall well-being and academic success.
Active listening and empathetic listening are two crucial aspects that underscore the
importance of listening skills in effective communication, particularly in educational
settings. By honing these skills, teachers can establish meaningful connections with their
students, address their needs, and facilitate a conducive learning environment conducive
to growth and development.
WRITTEN ASSESSMENT
100 marks
INSTRUCTIONS:
Assessment 2 consists of a number of questions. Answer all the questions. Number your answers
correctly and take note of the mark allocation for each question. We strongly recommend that you type
out your assessment 2. Submit your assessment 2 to Unisa in the same manner as you would submit
your other assignments (i.e. via myUnisa).
To answer assessment 2, you are requested to study Units 1 – The importance of listening
skills, and 2 – Promoting speaking skills using different language texts.
Remember to write all your particulars on the front cover. Also include the UNIQUE NUMBER for this
assignment.
Section A (20 marks)
Question 1 (5 marks)
Define the following terms with EXAMPLES using your own words.
1.1 Formal language
Formal language refers to a structured, precise mode of communication typically used in
professional or academic settings. It follows specific grammatical rules and vocabulary,
aiming for clarity and precision. Examples of formal language include legal documents,
scientific papers, and business reports. For instance, in a legal contract, phrases like
"whereas," "hereby," and "notwithstanding" are commonly used to establish legal
obligations with clarity and specificity.
1.2 Teaching Didactics
Teaching didactics involves the principles and methods employed in the process of
teaching and learning. It encompasses the strategies, techniques, and theories educators
use to convey information effectively to learners. An example of teaching didactics is the
use of scaffolding in education, where instructors provide structured support to help
students grasp new concepts gradually. This could involve breaking down complex tasks
into manageable steps or providing prompts to guide students through problem-solving
processes.
, Question 2 (10 marks)
2.1 One of the most important skills that a teacher needs to develop in learners
is the ability to listen well. Do you agree that listening skills assist in
effective communication?
Discuss with examples any two aspects of listening.
Yes, listening skills are essential for effective communication. They play a crucial role in
various aspects of interpersonal interactions, both in educational settings and beyond.
Active Listening:
Active listening involves fully concentrating on what is being said, understanding the
message, and responding appropriately. This aspect of listening is vital for teachers as it
allows them to engage with their students, show empathy, and foster a supportive
learning environment. For example, a teacher actively listens to a student sharing their
struggles with a particular concept. By maintaining eye contact, nodding, and
paraphrasing to confirm understanding, the teacher demonstrates genuine interest and
encourages further communication. Through active listening, the teacher can address the
student's concerns effectively and provide tailored support, ultimately enhancing the
student's learning experience.
Empathetic Listening:
Empathetic listening goes beyond simply hearing words; it involves understanding and
empathizing with the speaker's emotions and perspectives. This aspect of listening is
particularly important in educational settings where students may face challenges or
require emotional support. For instance, imagine a student confiding in their teacher
about feeling overwhelmed by academic pressure. By practicing empathetic listening, the
teacher acknowledges the student's feelings without judgment, validates their
experiences, and offers constructive guidance. Through empathetic listening, the teacher
not only builds trust and rapport with the student but also creates a safe space for open
communication and emotional expression. This, in turn, strengthens the teacher-student
relationship and contributes to the student's overall well-being and academic success.
Active listening and empathetic listening are two crucial aspects that underscore the
importance of listening skills in effective communication, particularly in educational
settings. By honing these skills, teachers can establish meaningful connections with their
students, address their needs, and facilitate a conducive learning environment conducive
to growth and development.
