Date of Award

1-1-2012

Language

English

Document Type

Master's Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

College/School/Department

Department of Education Theory and Practice

Content Description

1 online resource (iii, 60 pages) : PDF file, illustrations

Dissertation/Thesis Chair

Istvan Kecskes

Committee Members

Carol Rodgers

Keywords

additional language learning, multicultural music, socio-cultural context, third culture, Music and language, Music in education, English language, Second language acquisition

Subject Categories

Language and Literacy Education

Abstract

The South African Department of Basic Education has outlined general goals for the country's education system as well as specific goals for each school subject in a Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS) for Grades R to 12. This research focuses on how the use of multicultural South African music can support the goals and objectives of the curriculum for English as a First Additional Language in Grades 10 to 12. The proposed introduction of multicultural music creates a third culture that stems from the novel integration of cultural elements and takes advantage of learners' prior knowledge and cultural experiences. The music of two multicultural South African bands, namely Mango Groove and Freshlyground, is explored to illustrate how it combines English lyrics with other indigenous languages and integrates multicultural elements to create a third culture. The subject matter of their music simultaneously establishes an authentic and shared historical, political and socio-cultural context for teaching English as an Additional Language which promotes integration with other content areas in the curriculum. A selection of Mango Groove and Freshlyground lyrics provides practical demonstrations of how teachers and learners can explore figurative language, poetic devices, grammar and writing skills within a creative, authentic and familiar framework. The use of multicultural music therefore facilitates alignment with the general goals and specific objectives of the First Additional Language curriculum while the teaching of English within a rich historical, political and socio-cultural context strengthens connections between prior knowledge and the new knowledge of the Additional Language.

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