, AFL1501 ASSIGNMENT 5 SEMESTER 2 (FINAL PORTFOLIO) - 28 OCTOBER 2026
QUESTION 1
1. Module Experience Reflection
Before I started AFL1501, I mainly saw language as a way of communicating with other
people. I knew that South Africa had many different languages and cultures, but I had not
really thought about how closely language, identity, culture and community are connected. I
also viewed culture mostly in terms of traditions, food, celebrations and the practices
followed by families.
My understanding changed as I worked through the module. I learned that language is much
more than a communication tool. It can carry history, values, experiences and a person's
sense of belonging. The language that someone grows up speaking can become an important
part of how they understand and express their identity. Language and identity are closely
connected because people often use language to express who they are and where they come
from (De Kock, Sayed & Badroodien, 2018).
My understanding of culture also became broader. I previously thought culture was mainly
something that people inherited from their families. I now understand that culture is learned
and expressed through people's relationships, communities and everyday lives. Culture
includes values, beliefs, traditions, lifestyles and ways of living together (UNESCO, 2002).
The discussion about names was especially meaningful to me. I realised that a name can
carry a family story, religious beliefs, cultural influences and expectations. A name can also
provide a connection between generations because the meaning behind it may have been
chosen by parents or grandparents.
Another important lesson was that culture does not have to remain unchanged. Traditions can
be preserved while certain practices develop in response to changes in society. Technology,
education and interaction between different communities can all influence culture.
QUESTION 1
1. Module Experience Reflection
Before I started AFL1501, I mainly saw language as a way of communicating with other
people. I knew that South Africa had many different languages and cultures, but I had not
really thought about how closely language, identity, culture and community are connected. I
also viewed culture mostly in terms of traditions, food, celebrations and the practices
followed by families.
My understanding changed as I worked through the module. I learned that language is much
more than a communication tool. It can carry history, values, experiences and a person's
sense of belonging. The language that someone grows up speaking can become an important
part of how they understand and express their identity. Language and identity are closely
connected because people often use language to express who they are and where they come
from (De Kock, Sayed & Badroodien, 2018).
My understanding of culture also became broader. I previously thought culture was mainly
something that people inherited from their families. I now understand that culture is learned
and expressed through people's relationships, communities and everyday lives. Culture
includes values, beliefs, traditions, lifestyles and ways of living together (UNESCO, 2002).
The discussion about names was especially meaningful to me. I realised that a name can
carry a family story, religious beliefs, cultural influences and expectations. A name can also
provide a connection between generations because the meaning behind it may have been
chosen by parents or grandparents.
Another important lesson was that culture does not have to remain unchanged. Traditions can
be preserved while certain practices develop in response to changes in society. Technology,
education and interaction between different communities can all influence culture.
