FULL NAMES:
STUDENT NUMBER:
MODULE CODE: TMN3702
MODULE NAME: TEACHING HOME LANGUAGE IN THE INTERMEDIATE
PHASE:
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023
, QUESTION 1
1.1. Role of Code Switching in a Language Classroom
Code switching, the practice of alternating between two or more languages or dialects
in a conversation, plays a significant role in multilingual classrooms where learners
speak multiple languages but are primarily instructed in one language. It serves
several important functions.
Firstly, code switching can be a useful tool for scaffolding comprehension. When
learners encounter complex concepts or vocabulary in the target language, the teacher
can briefly switch to a language the students are more comfortable with to provide
explanations or examples. This can prevent learners from feeling overwhelmed and
ensure they grasp the material.
Furthermore, code switching can serve as a bridge between the familiar and the new.
It can help learners make connections between their existing linguistic knowledge and
the target language, facilitating a smoother transition into using the latter. This is
particularly important in contexts where students may not have had extensive
exposure to the language prior to formal instruction.
In addition, code switching can enhance engagement. When learners hear their native
language, it can create a sense of belonging and reassurance, reducing anxiety and
increasing their willingness to participate. It also allows for a more dynamic and
interactive classroom environment, as students feel more confident in expressing
themselves.
Teachers can strategically leverage code switching by using it judiciously and
purposefully. They should be mindful of the balance between providing support and
ensuring exposure to the target language. Over-reliance on code switching can hinder
students' progress in acquiring the target language. Therefore, it should be used as a
tool to aid comprehension, not as a substitute for immersion in the target language.
1.2. Translanguaging, the practice of utilizing all of a student's language resources for
learning, is a powerful tool for supporting multilingual students' language development
and overall learning experience. This approach recognizes that students have a
diverse linguistic repertoire and encourages them to draw on it to enhance their
understanding and expression.
STUDENT NUMBER:
MODULE CODE: TMN3702
MODULE NAME: TEACHING HOME LANGUAGE IN THE INTERMEDIATE
PHASE:
OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2023
, QUESTION 1
1.1. Role of Code Switching in a Language Classroom
Code switching, the practice of alternating between two or more languages or dialects
in a conversation, plays a significant role in multilingual classrooms where learners
speak multiple languages but are primarily instructed in one language. It serves
several important functions.
Firstly, code switching can be a useful tool for scaffolding comprehension. When
learners encounter complex concepts or vocabulary in the target language, the teacher
can briefly switch to a language the students are more comfortable with to provide
explanations or examples. This can prevent learners from feeling overwhelmed and
ensure they grasp the material.
Furthermore, code switching can serve as a bridge between the familiar and the new.
It can help learners make connections between their existing linguistic knowledge and
the target language, facilitating a smoother transition into using the latter. This is
particularly important in contexts where students may not have had extensive
exposure to the language prior to formal instruction.
In addition, code switching can enhance engagement. When learners hear their native
language, it can create a sense of belonging and reassurance, reducing anxiety and
increasing their willingness to participate. It also allows for a more dynamic and
interactive classroom environment, as students feel more confident in expressing
themselves.
Teachers can strategically leverage code switching by using it judiciously and
purposefully. They should be mindful of the balance between providing support and
ensuring exposure to the target language. Over-reliance on code switching can hinder
students' progress in acquiring the target language. Therefore, it should be used as a
tool to aid comprehension, not as a substitute for immersion in the target language.
1.2. Translanguaging, the practice of utilizing all of a student's language resources for
learning, is a powerful tool for supporting multilingual students' language development
and overall learning experience. This approach recognizes that students have a
diverse linguistic repertoire and encourages them to draw on it to enhance their
understanding and expression.
