ENG3701
ASSIGNMENT NO: 02
History and spread of English
YEAR : 2024
PREVIEW
Title: The Role of English in Shaping Linguistic Identities and National Unity in Post-
Apartheid South Africa
Introduction
The linguistic landscape of South Africa is as diverse as its people, with eleven official
languages recognized in the constitution1 . However, the dominance of English in post-
apartheid South Africa has profound implications for citizens' linguistic identities, perceptions
of belonging, citizenship, and cultural heritage. This essay explores these implications and
considers the role of English in bridging societal divides and fostering national unity.
1
Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996.
, 2
Assignment Two
Semester One
ENG3701
History and spread of English
100 marks
Assignment Two
In Assignment 01 you were asked to trace the evolution of English to the present day and
discuss the various influences on the English language. Assignment 02 entails an exploration
of the role of English in shaping identity and social dynamics within post-apartheid South
Africa.
Question
How does the dominance of English over multiple other languages in post-apartheid South
Africa shape citizens' negotiations of their linguistic identities and influence
perceptions of belonging, citizenship, and cultural heritage? Your response should
include a consideration of the degree to which English effectively contributes to bridging
societal divides and fostering national unity in South Africa. You are expected to write a
coherent and cohesive essay of approximately 1000-1500 words.
Title: The Role of English in Shaping Linguistic Identities and National Unity in Post-
Apartheid South Africa
Introduction
The linguistic landscape of South Africa is as diverse as its people, with eleven official
languages recognized in the constitution2 . However, the dominance of English in post-
apartheid South Africa has profound implications for citizens' linguistic identities, perceptions
of belonging, citizenship, and cultural heritage. This essay explores these implications and
considers the role of English in bridging societal divides and fostering national unity.
English Dominance and Linguistic Identities
In post-apartheid South Africa, English has emerged as a dominant language, particularly in
schooling and the economy3. This dominance has led to an increased use of English,
2
Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996.
3
Makalela, L. (2008). English in post-apartheid South Africa: Challenges and changes.
English Today, 24(2), 30-36.
LOLA JACOBS ASSIGNMENTS © 2024
ASSIGNMENT NO: 02
History and spread of English
YEAR : 2024
PREVIEW
Title: The Role of English in Shaping Linguistic Identities and National Unity in Post-
Apartheid South Africa
Introduction
The linguistic landscape of South Africa is as diverse as its people, with eleven official
languages recognized in the constitution1 . However, the dominance of English in post-
apartheid South Africa has profound implications for citizens' linguistic identities, perceptions
of belonging, citizenship, and cultural heritage. This essay explores these implications and
considers the role of English in bridging societal divides and fostering national unity.
1
Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996.
, 2
Assignment Two
Semester One
ENG3701
History and spread of English
100 marks
Assignment Two
In Assignment 01 you were asked to trace the evolution of English to the present day and
discuss the various influences on the English language. Assignment 02 entails an exploration
of the role of English in shaping identity and social dynamics within post-apartheid South
Africa.
Question
How does the dominance of English over multiple other languages in post-apartheid South
Africa shape citizens' negotiations of their linguistic identities and influence
perceptions of belonging, citizenship, and cultural heritage? Your response should
include a consideration of the degree to which English effectively contributes to bridging
societal divides and fostering national unity in South Africa. You are expected to write a
coherent and cohesive essay of approximately 1000-1500 words.
Title: The Role of English in Shaping Linguistic Identities and National Unity in Post-
Apartheid South Africa
Introduction
The linguistic landscape of South Africa is as diverse as its people, with eleven official
languages recognized in the constitution2 . However, the dominance of English in post-
apartheid South Africa has profound implications for citizens' linguistic identities, perceptions
of belonging, citizenship, and cultural heritage. This essay explores these implications and
considers the role of English in bridging societal divides and fostering national unity.
English Dominance and Linguistic Identities
In post-apartheid South Africa, English has emerged as a dominant language, particularly in
schooling and the economy3. This dominance has led to an increased use of English,
2
Constitution of the Republic of South Africa, 1996.
3
Makalela, L. (2008). English in post-apartheid South Africa: Challenges and changes.
English Today, 24(2), 30-36.
LOLA JACOBS ASSIGNMENTS © 2024
