LIN1502 ASSIGNMENT 2 2026
DUE 26 AUGUST 2026
Question 1
Scenario:
(1.1) Would you describe the way Lesedi is learning Setswana as naturalistic or
instructed second language learning? Explain your answer.
Lesedi's learning of Setswana is instructed second language learning.
The study guide defines instructed L2 learning as learning that "involves formal study at
school or in any other language classroom" and takes place "with the help of textbooks
containing vocabulary and grammar rules" (Study Unit 3, p. 52). Lesedi is using a
language app and grammar workbooks to systematically teach herself Setswana
(Scenario). This is a formal, deliberate approach to learning the language, which is
characteristic of instructed learning, rather than picking it up through natural exposure in
everyday conversation.
(1.2) Is Karabo's motivation for learning Xitsonga primarily instrumental or
integrative? Give a reason based on the scenario.
Karabo's motivation for learning Xitsonga is primarily instrumental.
The study guide explains that instrumental reasons for learning a language are those
"where the L2 is learnt because it can offer benefits, opportunities and practical
advantages" (Study Unit 1, p. 5). Karabo is learning Xitsonga so he can communicate
with his colleagues on the warehouse floor and give basic work instructions (Scenario).
This is for practical workplace communication and job-related purposes, not primarily
, because he has an interest in Xitsonga culture. Therefore, his motivation is instrumental
(Study Unit 3, p. 64).
(1.3) Differentiate between language acquisition and language learning by stating
which best describes Lesedi and her relationship with Setswana.
The study guide draws a clear distinction between these two terms (Study Unit 1, p. 3):
Language acquisition refers to "first language development, or to any second - or even
third - language that a pre-adolescent child learns unconsciously and informally" (Study
Unit 1, p. 3). It is a subconscious process that occurs through natural exposure without
formal instruction.
Language learning refers to "the more conscious learning process that occurs when
adolescents or adults learn a second (or later) language" (Study Unit 1, p. 3). It is a
deliberate, formal process that often involves study materials and instruction.
Lesedi's relationship with Setswana is best described as language learning. At age 22,
she is an adult who is consciously and systematically teaching herself the language
using a language app and grammar workbooks (Scenario and Study Unit 1, p. 3). This
is a formal, deliberate approach, not the unconscious, informal acquisition process
typical of young children.
(1.4) What kind of language is French in South Africa? Why?
French is a foreign language in South Africa (Study Unit 1, p. 5).
The study guide explains that "we speak of a foreign language when it is not usually
used in the society in which it is spoken, e.g. French or Swahili in South Africa" (Study
Unit 1, p. 5). Since French is not a common means of communication in broader South
African society and is not one of the country's official languages, it is classified as a
foreign language.
DUE 26 AUGUST 2026
Question 1
Scenario:
(1.1) Would you describe the way Lesedi is learning Setswana as naturalistic or
instructed second language learning? Explain your answer.
Lesedi's learning of Setswana is instructed second language learning.
The study guide defines instructed L2 learning as learning that "involves formal study at
school or in any other language classroom" and takes place "with the help of textbooks
containing vocabulary and grammar rules" (Study Unit 3, p. 52). Lesedi is using a
language app and grammar workbooks to systematically teach herself Setswana
(Scenario). This is a formal, deliberate approach to learning the language, which is
characteristic of instructed learning, rather than picking it up through natural exposure in
everyday conversation.
(1.2) Is Karabo's motivation for learning Xitsonga primarily instrumental or
integrative? Give a reason based on the scenario.
Karabo's motivation for learning Xitsonga is primarily instrumental.
The study guide explains that instrumental reasons for learning a language are those
"where the L2 is learnt because it can offer benefits, opportunities and practical
advantages" (Study Unit 1, p. 5). Karabo is learning Xitsonga so he can communicate
with his colleagues on the warehouse floor and give basic work instructions (Scenario).
This is for practical workplace communication and job-related purposes, not primarily
, because he has an interest in Xitsonga culture. Therefore, his motivation is instrumental
(Study Unit 3, p. 64).
(1.3) Differentiate between language acquisition and language learning by stating
which best describes Lesedi and her relationship with Setswana.
The study guide draws a clear distinction between these two terms (Study Unit 1, p. 3):
Language acquisition refers to "first language development, or to any second - or even
third - language that a pre-adolescent child learns unconsciously and informally" (Study
Unit 1, p. 3). It is a subconscious process that occurs through natural exposure without
formal instruction.
Language learning refers to "the more conscious learning process that occurs when
adolescents or adults learn a second (or later) language" (Study Unit 1, p. 3). It is a
deliberate, formal process that often involves study materials and instruction.
Lesedi's relationship with Setswana is best described as language learning. At age 22,
she is an adult who is consciously and systematically teaching herself the language
using a language app and grammar workbooks (Scenario and Study Unit 1, p. 3). This
is a formal, deliberate approach, not the unconscious, informal acquisition process
typical of young children.
(1.4) What kind of language is French in South Africa? Why?
French is a foreign language in South Africa (Study Unit 1, p. 5).
The study guide explains that "we speak of a foreign language when it is not usually
used in the society in which it is spoken, e.g. French or Swahili in South Africa" (Study
Unit 1, p. 5). Since French is not a common means of communication in broader South
African society and is not one of the country's official languages, it is classified as a
foreign language.
