The use of code-switching from Xitsonga to English as a conversational strategy

Abstract

The researcher was motivated to conduct this research because there is a prevalence (high rate) use of code-switching among high school learners, teachers and students in tertiary institutions as well as in Xitsonga texts. This was observed by evaluating selected Xitsonga literature or text books with the aim of investigating why characters in the text books use code-switching as a conversational strategy. Based on the research findings, it became evident that characters/speakers switch because they have a lack of language proficiency, in their language or the target language. Their switch appears to be influenced by their statuses, the lack of equivalent words, the situations they find themselves in and the urge to be socially accepted by their peers. It is recommended that speakers need to learn their language adequately in order to communicate effectively without having to switch