Setswana Home Language - Term 2 - Week 7

Grammar is the set of rules that helps us to form sentences correctly. In Setswana, just like in any language, we need to use the right words in the right order. For example, in a simple sentence like 'Ngwana o a ja', we see that the subject 'Ngwana' (child) comes first, followed by the verb 'o a ja' (is eating). Today, we will learn how to spot mistakes in sentences and how to fix them.

Let's look at the sentence: 'Ngwana a ja lebese'. This sentence is almost correct, but it is missing a subject marker. The correct sentence should be 'Ngwana o a ja lebese'. Notice how adding 'o' makes the sentence clearer. We will practice correcting more sentences together.

In groups, you will receive a list of sentences with mistakes. Your task is to read each sentence and discuss with your group how to correct them. For example, if you see 'Bana ba a bapala', you might notice that it needs a subject marker. Work together to fix the sentences and be ready to share your corrections with the class.

Now it's your turn to write! I want you to create three sentences about your favorite animal. Make sure to use correct punctuation and spacing. For example, if your favorite animal is a dog, you could write: 'Nku e monate. E a tshega. E rata go tsamaya.' After writing, check your sentences for any mistakes before sharing them with a partner.

• Ngwana o a bapala
• Ngwana a bapala
• Ngwana ba a bapala

Answer: Ngwana o a bapala

The correct sentence includes the subject marker 'o' which indicates that the child is the one playing.

Answer: Question mark

A question mark is used to indicate that a sentence is asking something.

• Ngwana o a ja borai
• Ngwana a ja borai
• Ngwana o ja borai

Answer: Ngwana o a ja borai

The correct form includes the subject marker 'o' and the verb 'a' to indicate present tense.

Answer: Nku e a tshega.

This sentence means 'The dog is laughing' and uses correct grammar.

• To make it longer
• To correct mistakes
• To change the meaning

Answer: To correct mistakes

Editing helps us to find and fix errors in our writing.

Answer: Punctuation marks

Punctuation marks help clarify the meaning of sentences.

• Ngwana o a ja
• Ngwana o a ja.
• Ngwana o a ja?

Answer: Ngwana o a ja

The first sentence is missing a full stop or question mark.

Answer: To make the sentence easy to read.

Correct spacing helps readers understand where one word ends and another begins.