M.A. / In most instances, Afrikaans second language courses offered to black pupils are planned without pausing to reflect on the communicative needs of the black community. In certain instances this factor has been taken into account. However, these needs were determined intuitively rather than through research and sound experience. The primary aim of this study is to examine problems affecting the determination of the comminicative needs of black pupils in Afrikaans, as well as to find criteria for the selection of suitable material for learning Afrikaans in order to satisfy the specified needs. It is hoped that this study will serve to illustrate the need for careful research aimed at establishing a systematic and scientific needs analysis for Afrikaans at black schools in the Republic of S.A. The problems and constraints pertaining to the application of an investigation into the requirements of the target group are also outlined in this study. Recommendations suggesting possible solutions of these problems are made. In addition, the present syllabus is examined in the light of present insights into the communicative needs of black learners. Chapter one deals with the aims and structure of the study. The second chapter sketches the most important points concerning the acquisition and learning of a second language. In the following chapter the theories and approaches to language teaching are discussed.

M.A. (African Languages) / Please refer to full text to view abstract