The History and Relationship of South African Languages
This course examines historical factors that gave rise to the languages spoken in South Africa and the neighbouring countries. It examines the structural as well as genetic relationships among the African languages.
The Sound and Sound Systems of African Languages
This course introduces students to the phonetics and phonology of the Nguni and Sotho languages of South Africa.
The Structure and Meaning of Words and Sentences in Bantu Languages
This course introduces students to the morphology, syntax and semantics of Bantu languages in general and their chosen language.
Comparative Structure of South African Languages
There are two aims of this course. These are to:
- Introduce comparative methods in linguistics.
- To apply these methods to the analysis of the structure of South African languages.
Drama, Ritual and Performance
This modular course examines the content and historical development of poetry in African languages, (a) the evolution of modern poetry (dithoko/izibongo) through the discussion of sample poems, (b) the documenting and study of the development of new styles such as Masikandi and Difela.
Elementary isiZulu Language and Culture
These are beginner's courses designed for students who have no knowledge of IsiZulu. AFRL 128 takes place in the first semester and AFRL 129 is a continuation of AFRL 128 It is offered in the second semester.
Intermediate IsiZulu Language and Culture
This course assumes a basic knowledge of isiZulu. Students will be given texts from different literary genres. These are to be studied as part of the language components. AFRL 222 is offered in the first semester and AFRL 223 is offered in the second semester.
Elementary Sesotho Language and Culture
These are beginner's courses designed for students who have no knowledge of Sesotho. AFRL 122 is offered in the first semester and AFRL 123 is a continuation of AFRL 122 and is offered in the second semester.