siSwati First Additional Language - Term 4 - Week 6

Today, we will explore phonics in siSwati. Phonics helps us understand the sounds that letters make. We will focus on the sounds of vowels and consonants. For example, the letter 'a' can sound like 'ah' in 'amandla' (power) or 'a' in 'baba' (father). Let's listen to some words and identify their sounds together.

Let's take the word 'siyabonga' (thank you). We can break it down into sounds: si-ya-bon-ga. Now, let's try to build new words using the same sounds. For instance, we can create 'siyabonga' by changing the last sound to 'siyabongisa' (to thank). Notice how changing one sound can create a new word.

In groups, you will receive a set of letters. Your task is to create as many words as possible using those letters. Remember to think about the sounds each letter makes. After 10 minutes, we will share our words with the class. Make sure to use correct spacing and punctuation in your sentences.

Now, it's your turn to write! Choose three words you created during the group activity and write a sentence for each. Make sure to use correct punctuation at the end of each sentence. For example, if you wrote 'baba', your sentence could be 'Baba uyaphila!' (Father is well!). After writing, read your sentences to a partner.

• Eh
• Ee
• Ay
• Ah

Answer: Eh

In siSwati, the letter 'e' typically makes the 'eh' sound.

• Baba
• Bbee
• Babae
• Baba!

Answer: Baba

Baba is a correct siSwati word meaning 'father'.

Answer: Siyabonga kakhulu!

This sentence means 'Thank you very much!' in siSwati.

• Love
• Power
• Friend
• Family

Answer: Power

'Amandla' translates to 'power' in siSwati.

Answer: si

The first sound in 'siyabonga' is 'si'.

• Period
• Comma
• Question mark
• Exclamation mark

Answer: Question mark

A question mark is used to indicate a question.

• Babauyaphila
• Baba uyaphila
• Baba uyaphila!
• Baba uyaphila?

Answer: Baba uyaphila

Correct spacing separates the words in the sentence.

Answer: a, e

The vowels 'a' and 'e' are commonly used in siSwati.