The Incremental Implementation of African Languages (IIAL) is a programme by South Africa’s Department of Basic Education to introduce the learning of an African language as a second or third language for pupils at schools. This programme will start learning-language in grade 1 and then follow it through to the end of schooling in grade 12 – that’s where the incremental implementation part comes in. While a laudable initiative, there are not enough trained African languages teachers in schools currently. The public broadcaster SABC has attempted to assist with a terrifying puppet-show series, but it fails to provide adequate support to teachers and guidance on how to structure a lesson. With Yizani, we’ve attempted to bridge this gap.
So what is Yizani? It is a series of digital resources, delivered offline via a USB-drive that a teacher can display on a laptop and projector or smartboard in the front of their class. The primary component is a set of levelled readers, which introduce learners to basic isixhosa language and grammar. Built out from the readers, using the same characters and vocabulary to reinforce learning, are integrated resources the teacher can use as part of a lesson, to engage learners or introduce new words. These include a read-aloud digital book, short sing-along videos, interactive games (to be played by the whole class), flashcards and printable worksheets. All these resources have English translations and audio clips, useful for teachers not sure of the pronunciation. Additional notes and lesson plans are provided for the teacher.