siSwati First Additional Language - Term 4 - Week 10

A sentence is a group of words that expresses a complete thought. In siSwati, just like in English, we use punctuation marks to help our readers understand our sentences better. The most common punctuation marks are the full stop (.), question mark (?), and exclamation mark (!). Today, we will learn how to write sentences and use these punctuation marks correctly.

Let's look at some examples of sentences: 'Ngiyathanda ukudla.' (I love to eat.) This sentence ends with a full stop. If we want to ask a question, we can say, 'Uphi umngani wakho?' (Where is your friend?) This sentence ends with a question mark. Lastly, if we want to express excitement, we can say, 'Ngiyajabula!' (I am happy!) which ends with an exclamation mark.

Now, let's practice writing sentences together. I will say a sentence, and you will help me write it on the board. For example, if I say, 'Siyahamba esikoleni.' (We are going to school.), how do we write it? Remember to put a full stop at the end. After we write it, we will read it together and check if we used the correct punctuation.

Now it's your turn to write! I want you to write three sentences about your favorite animal. Remember to start each sentence with a capital letter and end with the correct punctuation mark. After you finish writing, share your sentences with a partner and read them aloud to each other.

• A group of letters
• A group of words that makes sense
• A single word
• A number

Answer: A group of words that makes sense

A sentence is formed by a group of words that together express a complete thought.

• .
• ?
• !
• ,

Answer: ?

A question mark is used at the end of a sentence that asks a question.

• .
• ?
• !
• ;

Answer: !

An exclamation mark is used to express strong feelings or excitement.

Answer: Ngiyathanda pizza.

This sentence expresses a complete thought about liking pizza.

• Running fast.
• The dog barks.
• Jumping high.
• Very happy.

Answer: The dog barks.

This is a complete sentence that has a subject and a verb.

Answer: A punctuation mark.

Every sentence must end with a punctuation mark to indicate its completion.

• With a small letter
• With a capital letter
• With a number
• With a symbol

Answer: With a capital letter

Every sentence begins with a capital letter to indicate the start of a new thought.

Answer: Ngiyafunda incwadi.

This sentence means 'I am reading a book' and ends with a full stop.