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ENGLISH STUDIES

Major combinations:
NQF Level 5: ENG1501, ENG1502
NQF Level 6: ENG2601, ENG2602, ENG2603
NQF Level 7: ENG3701, ENG3702, ENG3703, ENG3704, ENG3705

Gender and Sexuality in Literature - ENG4803
Honours Year module NQF level: 8 Credits: 24
Module presented in English Module presented online
Purpose: This module aims to enable students to engage in advanced interpretation of literary texts written in English in relation to issues of gender and sexuality, as well as the intersections of these issues with race, class and other axes of unequal power distribution. It will enable students to: thoughtfully engage with literary works in relation to the perspectives they articulate on gender and sexuality; identify and transform the meanings associated with gender and sexuality (and related notions such as self, identity, the body, etc.); challenge existing hegemonies; reconfigure power relations; and open up new understandings of gender and sexuality. As gender and sexuality are two of the key nexuses of subject-formation and inequality in twenty-first century society across the globe, and as patriarchy is ubiquitous, this module will also provide students with an informed standpoint from which to effect social change in issues relating to gender.
Genres in Literature and Language: Theory, Style and Poetics - ENG2602
Under Graduate Degree Year module NQF level: 6 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Pre-requisite: ENG1501 & ENG1502
Purpose: The purpose of this module is to equip students with the skill of reading and analysing short passages in five different genres: prose, poetry, drama, persuasive prose and conversation, with close attention to language usage. Students will also develop the ability to write about these passages coherently and with compliance to the requirements of academic English.
(Post)Modernities and Temporalities - ENG4804
Honours Year module NQF level: 8 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Purpose: This module aims to enable students to engage literary, cultural and other relevant texts, specifically in relation to understanding, interpreting, shaping and contrasting meanings which are entangled with modernity and postmodernity. These two currents of thought and aesthetics continue significantly to shape institutions, practices and identities in South Africa, Africa and around the world. This engagement will assist students to relate thoughtfully to the complex epistemological, social and political challenges that have arisen in our time with respect to truth, value, actuality, representation, simulation, identity, liminality, originality, signification and technology. This will enable students to challenge their thinking about time; to develop considered views about the relations of past, future and present; and to transform value and meaning in the world.
Colonial and Postcolonial African Literatures - ENG2603
Under Graduate Degree Year module NQF level: 6 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Pre-requisite: ENG1501 & ENG1502
Purpose: The module will enable students to explore representations of race, class, gender, identity, community and nationhood in southern African settings. It will establish the literary and theoretical groundwork for a broader and more nuanced application of literary theories to a range of texts. These skills will feed into the third year modules where the emphasis on literary theory will increase. Upon successful completion of this module, students will be able to apply appropriate reading strategies to a wide variety of literary and non-literary texts written in the English language. They will also be able to demonstrate the application of critical and analytical skills in their readings of texts as well as the ability to respond to texts in the form of properly structured essays written in sound academic English.
Research Essay in English Studies - HRENG82
Honours Year module NQF level: 8 Credits: 36
Module presented in English Module presented online
Recommendation: Students should not register for this module in the first year of their study towards a Bachelor of Arts Honours in English Studies if they are studying for the degree over more than one year. It is recommended that they complete the module "Theoretical Perspectives on Literature in English" and at least one other module before registering for the research essay.
Purpose: The module aims to enable students to devise and execute an independent research project within the discipline of the study of literature in English, in consultation with a supervisor in the Department of English Studies. Drafting the essay will be done under the supervision of a specialist in the Department. The research essay must demonstrate both careful research into the selected problem for research, and thoughtful, theoretically supported and critical engagement with the chosen topic. In line with DHET requirements, this module is compulsory.
Creative Writing for Public Relations - ENG2604
Under Graduate Degree Semester module NQF level: 6 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Purpose: The purpose of this module is to improve the writing skills of public relations students. Students who complete this module will demonstrate the ability to write clearly, precisely, accurately and concisely for specific contexts, purposes and audiences. Moreover, students will produce written texts that inform, persuade and entertain audiences using appropriate styles and formats.
Applied English Language for Foundation and Intermediate Phase First Additional Language - ENG2611
Under Graduate Degree Year module NQF level: 6 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Pre-requisite: ENG1514 or ENG1516
Purpose: This module equips students with skills and competencies to: a) adopt an integrated approach to the use of language systems, literature and visuals to promote analytical skills. b) advance and integrate the students' foundational knowledge of and skills in language and literature to conceptualise the process of critical text analysis. c) develop the students' skills in interpreting how linguistic features, literary devices, visuals and structure influence meaning and purpose in a wide range of texts. d) promote the use of selective and critical reading strategies of different literary and non-literary genres as prompts to develop critical writing skills. e) advance the students' ability to write logical and coherent text analysis by implementing the three phases of the writing process. Enhance the students' proficiency and pragmatic competence in the use and variation of the English language in different real-life contexts and domains.
Foundations in English Literary Studies - ENG1501
Under Graduate Degree Year module NQF level: 5 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Purpose: a) This module aims to establish a solid literary foundation for English studies by introducing students to representations of diversity in a range of fictional narratives in English. b) Students credited with this module will be able to apply appropriate reading strategies to a wide variety of literary and non-literary texts in English. c) Students will be able to demonstrate appropriate writing skills in academic English.
Applied English Language for Foundation and Intermediate Phase Home Language - ENG2612
Under Graduate Degree Year module NQF level: 6 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Pre-requisite: ENG1515 or ENG1517
Purpose: This module equips students with skills and competencies to: a) adopt an integrated approach to the use of language systems, literature and visuals to promote analytical skills. b) advance and integrate the students' foundational knowledge of and skills in language and literature to conceptualise the process of critical text analysis. c) develop the students' skills in interpreting how linguistic features, literary devices, visuals and structure influence meaning and purpose in a wide range of texts. d) promote the use of selective and critical reading strategies of different literary and non-literary genres as prompts to develop critical writing skills. e) advance the students' ability to write logical and coherent text analysis by implementing the three phases of the writing process. f) enhance the students' proficiency and pragmatic competence in the use and variation of the English language in different real-life contexts and domains.
Foundations in English Language Studies - ENG1502
Under Graduate Degree Year module NQF level: 5 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Purpose: a) The module will equip students with the skills of applied English language studies (such as in applied linguistics, writing/rhetoric studies, and discourse studies). Students will be able to apply their understanding and skills to English language as it functions in various real-life contexts and domains. b) The module aims to introduce students to a systematic description of English Language and to introduce students to the grammatical competences needed to apply their knowledge to the analysis of authentic language data. c) The module will introduce meta-language terminology in the discipline of Applied English language studies which is essential for advanced proficiency and literacy development.
Applied English Literature for Intermediate Phase First Additional Language - ENG2613
Under Graduate Degree Year module NQF level: 6 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Pre-requisite: ENG1514
Purpose: This module forms part of the second-year English Studies module that is taken in conjunction with the NQF level 6, language module. The purpose of this module is to equip students with a) The skill of reading short passages of children's literature in three different genres: prose, poetry and drama with close attention paid to author's creative choices regarding language usage b) The ability to write about these passages coherently and with compliance to the requirements of academic English. The second level Intermediate Phase B.Ed. students of English will be introduced to novels and short stories, poetry and drama with an emphasis on children's literature.
Academic Language and Literacy in English - ENG1503
Under Graduate Degree Semester module NQF level: 5 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Purpose: The purpose of this module is to develop learners' ability for critical reading and critical writing which are essential academic skills, improve their Academic English competence (academic discourse and literacy) and develop their ability to read and write academic genres (for disciplines and various contexts), such as argumentative and essay writing, research-based essays, research articles, lectures, using appropriate conventions, such as citation, and research skills.
Applied English Literature for Intermediate Phase Home Language - ENG2614
Under Graduate Degree Year module NQF level: 6 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Pre-requisite: ENG1515
Purpose: This module forms part of the second-year English Studies module that is taken in conjunction with the NQF level 6, language module. The purpose of this module is to equip students with a) The skill of reading short passages of children's literature in three different genres: prose, poetry and drama with close attention paid to author's creative choices regarding language usage b) The ability to write about these passages coherently and with compliance to the requirements of academic English. The second level Intermediate Phase B.Ed. students of English will be introduced to novels and short stories, poetry and drama with an emphasis on children's literature.
Practising Workplace English - ENG1504
Diploma,Higher Certificate,Under Graduate Degree Semester module NQF level: 5 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Purpose: The purpose of this module is to develop proficiency in English and a range of related communication skills and strategies for work place environments in the students. The central focus is on enabling students to produce well-written work-related documentation in English. Such documents should be concise, complete, and appropriate with suitable and formal language appropriate for respective business objectives, factual and objective. Students who complete this module will be able to plan, gather information, draft, revise, edit, proofread and critique work place documents. This module will be beneficial to both public and private sector work environments pertaining to Business English. The module is used as a feeder module for several qualifications in the institution.
Politics of the English Language: Origin, spread, responses and influences of/on the English Language - ENG3701
Under Graduate Degree Year module NQF level: 7 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Pre-requisite: ENG2601, ENG2602, & ENG2603
Purpose: The purpose of this module is to enable students to develop knowledge and understanding of the origins, spread, and influence of and on the English Language in the Global context with a particular focus on South African Englishes. Develop knowledge of the emergence and significance of World Englishes, English as a Lingua Franca, with a particular focus on the development and characteristics of South African English Varieties. Develop the ability to recognize and describe significant features of language in a range of English texts in different genres (Differentiate between OE, ME and MnE, as well as varieties of English used today). Acquire critical awareness of the technological influences and status of English in the global, technological, and linguistic context (Lingua franca, attitudes towards varieties of Englishes versus Standard English). Engage with and contribute to the discourses resulting from the social and political implications of the spread of English in the global and African context, (colonialism and power, etc).
English Proficiency for University Studies - ENG1511
Higher Certificate,Under Graduate Degree Semester module NQF level: 5 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Purpose: This module aims to develop learners' ability to read critically with comprehension and insight, improve their linguistic competence and develop their ability to write critically and logically. By the end of the module students should be able to command proficiency in critical reading, critical thinking and writing skills.
English language across contexts: Discourses, genres, and modes in the digital and non-digital ages - ENG3702
Under Graduate Degree Year module NQF level: 7 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Pre-requisite: ENG1502, ENG2601, ENG2602, & ENG2603
Purpose: The purpose of this module is to make students aware of the interrelations between the English language and the various contexts of its use (such as academic, professional, time, space and ethnocentric contexts). Develop students' ability to read, analyse, critique and problematise a wide range of texts critically, including a critical analysis of different digital genres and of texts produced in the Global South, which display elements of Africanisation, transformation, and decolonisation. Foster students' ability to write analytical essays in the English language and register that is appropriate to specific contexts, modes and purposes.
English for Economic and Management Science - ENG1512
Under Graduate Degree Semester module NQF level: 5 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Purpose: The module will enable students to apply language structures and conventions in relation to their studies in the field of the economic and management sciences. b) Students accredited with this module will be able to adapt more effectively to the challenges of the academic environment when studying accountancy, business management and economics, through the development of their language learning skills and strategies.
Theoretical Approaches to English Language and Literature - ENG3703
Under Graduate Degree Year module NQF level: 7 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Pre-requisite: ENG2601, ENG2602, & ENG2603
Purpose: The purpose of this module is twofold: To extend students' critical awareness and understanding of selected theoretical approaches in English language and literature. To integrate selected theoretical approaches into the study of English non-literary and literary texts and apply them to these texts.
Foundations in English for University Study - ENG1513
Under Graduate Degree Semester module NQF level: 5 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Purpose: This module aims to develop learners' ability to read critically with comprehension and insight, improve their linguistic competence and develop their ability to write critically and logically. By the end of the module students should be able to command proficiency in listening, reading, critical thinking and writing skills.
Drama in English: Engagement and change - ENG3704
Under Graduate Degree Year module NQF level: 7 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Pre-requisite: ENG2601, ENG2602, & ENG2603
Purpose: The module aims to provide a critical exploration of how drama functions within a particular context. The student is guided through the study of a number of plays which hold particular significance in terms of aesthetic value and their response to certain pertinent social issues, such as human rights violations, the environmental crisis, and corruption. The purpose of the module is to equip students with: Appropriate strategies for a contextual reading of selected plays; Appropriate critical and analytical skills for a discussion of selected plays. The ability to formulate their responses to the plays in logically structured essays written in sound academic English.
Applied English Language Foundation and Intermediate Phase First Additional Language - ENG1514
Under Graduate Degree Year module NQF level: 5 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Purpose: This module equips students with skills and competencies to lay foundations for the study of language by introducing students to the general characteristics and functions of the English language. The module provides students with an overview of the basic levels of language analysis namely; phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics and pragmatics; develop students' knowledge of the four language skills namely listening, speaking, reading and writing and the interrelationship between them; equip students with the conceptual knowledge that will help them to apply their language competence and skills in various real-life contexts and domains; enhance students' language proficiency and literacy development.
Modern and Postmodern Literature in English - ENG3705
Under Graduate Degree Year module NQF level: 7 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Pre-requisite: ENG1501, ENG1502 ENG2601, ENG2602, & ENG2603
Purpose: The module aims to provide scholarly insight into the intellectual ferment and cultural changes which animate literary creativity in the twentieth and twenty-first centuries, as manifested in the modernist and post-modernist movements. In order to stimulate independent thinking and an awareness of the ways in which literature reflects the world, students are guided through the analytical study of literary texts in English from these periods.
Applied English Language for Foundation and Intermediate Phases - Home Language - ENG1515
Under Graduate Degree Year module NQF level: 5 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Purpose: This module equips students with the necessary skills and competencies to lay foundations for the study of language by introducing students to the general characteristics and functions of the English language. The module provides students with an overview of the basic levels of language analysis namely; phonetics, phonology, morphology, syntax, semantics and pragmatics; develop students' knowledge of the four language skills namely listening, speaking, reading and writing and the interrelationship between them; equip students with the conceptual knowledge that will help them to apply their language competence and skills in various real-life contexts and domains and to enhance students' language proficiency and literacy development.
FET Subject Didactics English - SDENG3J
Honours Year module NQF level: 7 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Pre-requisite: ENG1501, ENG1502, ENG2601, ENG2602 & ENG2603 Co-requisite: PTEAC1X (Not applicable to qualification: 90104)
Purpose: The SDENG3J module aims to introduce students to theories of English teaching in multicultural and multilingual classroom situations and then apply this theoretical knowledge in designing learner-centred, FET phase English education programmes.
Applied English Literature Foundation Phase First Additional Language - ENG1516
Under Graduate Degree Year module NQF level: 5 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Purpose: The purpose of this module is to introduce literary genres with an emphasis on children's literature (fiction, non-fiction, rhymes, songs, plays and storytelling) to first level FP B.Ed. students of English as a Home Language.
Theoretical Perspectives on Literature in English - ENG4801
Honours Year module NQF level: 8 Credits: 24
Module presented in English Module presented online
Recommendation: Students should register for this module in the first year of their study towards a Bachelor of Arts Honours in English Studies if they are studying for the degree over more than one year.
Purpose: This module will develop and deepen students' systematic knowledge of a range of theoretical perspectives on approaching the study of literature. It will also develop their critical competence in evaluating and interrogating a variety of approaches to literature, including conceptualisations developed from African views, those developed from the global South more broadly, and those originating from the global North. This will challenge western modernity's disposition to assign authority to a set of accepted discourses and practices that purport to be universal and form an epistemological "centre". The perspectives offered in this module will allow meanings to emerge from a plurality of centres. The skills developed will thus enable students to select between theories in order to choose those that apply best to specific literary texts in a variety of contexts. The module will also develop students' skill at applying these approaches and theories appropriately to the study of literary texts. Successful students will thus be able to contribute significantly to national epistemological and representational transformation.
Applied English Literature Foundation Phase Home Language - ENG1517
Under Graduate Degree Year module NQF level: 5 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Purpose: The purpose of this module is to introduce literary genres with an emphasis on children's literature (fiction, non-fiction, rhymes, songs, plays and storytelling) to first level FP B.Ed. students of English as a Home Language.
Literature from Africa and the African Diaspora - ENG4802
Honours Year module NQF level: 8 Credits: 24
Module presented in English Module presented online
Purpose: This module aims to enable successful students to demonstrate knowledge of literature produced by African writers and those from the African diaspora. It aims to foster sophisticated engagement with literary texts in English specifically in relation to meanings, knowledges and values pertinent to Africans on the continent and elsewhere. The history of western modernity has included the coloniality of knowledge, which in turn has suppressed the knowledges and art produced in communities deemed "inferior" (i.e. produced by the colonised). This module aims to redress this imbalance by re-centring literary production from Africa, while problematising the idea of a unitary African identity. It aspires to guide students towards an appreciation of African literature as responding to the challenges of globalisation, migration, liminal and hybrid identities, economic volatility and the mediatisation of the current era.
Applied English Language Studies: Further Explorations - ENG2601
Under Graduate Degree Year module NQF level: 6 Credits: 12
Module presented in English Module presented online
Pre-requisite: ENG1502
Purpose: The module will equip students with the skills of applied English language studies (such as in applied linguistics, writing/rhetoric studies, and discourse studies). Students will be able to apply their advanced skills in the analysis and interpretation of how the English language functions in various real-life contexts and domains. It aims to develop students' skills/abilities in the grammatical and textual competence needed for the analysis of authentic language data and advance students' pragmatic competence with emphasis on English language use and variation.