Multilingualism in Sepedi Home Language essay writing in grade 11 classroom at Dimamo Circuit, Capricorn South District, in Limpopo Province, South Africa

Abstract

This research focused on the essay writing challenges faced by Grade 11 learners in the Dimamo Circuit, Capricorn South District, Limpopo Province of South Africa. The challenges of writing in Sepedi Home Language are global. The study’s focus was on Grade 11 learners and their educators. The researcher used the interview and observation methods for the learners and educators. It was revealed that most teachers and learners agree that there are challenges in Sepedi essay writing and this in turn affects learners’ performance. The researcher recommended that the Department of Education should consider implementing targeted support programmes for learners who are facing difficulties with Sepedi essay writing in grade 11. These programmes should focus on providing additional assistance in drawing mind-maps, improving sentence construction, and grasping the fundamental aspects of grammar. It is also crucial to take into account the linguistic diversity among students and provide resources that cater to grade 11 learners who do not use Sepedi as their home language.