Zimbabwe Form 1-4 (O-Level) Foreign Languages

The Zimbabwe Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education's Forms 1-4 syllabus for Foreign Languages introduces communicative and functional language skills to learners. The syllabus aims to equip students with skills relevant to business opportunities and economic dynamics in a globalized world. It incorporates cultural, religious, social, and economic development aspects of the target languages, utilizing Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs). The syllabus promotes inclusivity and appreciation of diversity, encouraging learners to become competent global citizens. Unhu/Ubuntu/Vumunhu is emphasized through the selection of appropriate learning materials.

Foreign Languages Offered:

The syllabus specifically names the following foreign languages:

• Chinese
• French
• Kiswahili
• Portuguese

Rationale:

Learning a foreign language opens up opportunities for learners to interact with a wider world. It facilitates the expansion of skills and business into foreign markets, while also allowing learners to adopt new ideas from other cultures. These languages are crucial for economic development and are used within SADC, AU, and the United Nations, making them important mediums of communication in the global market. They help learners develop critical understanding and communication skills for active participation in society.

Syllabus Aims:

The syllabus aims to enable learners to:

• Acquire the four macro skills (Listening, Speaking, Reading, and Writing) in the foreign language, incorporating visual, manual, and tactile skills for learners with diverse needs.
• Develop awareness of the target language's importance in Zimbabwe's economic, scientific, and cultural links with SADC, AU, and the international community.
• Develop an appreciation of other cultures, religions, socio-economic, and political environments.
• Develop an appreciation of the aesthetic qualities of foreign languages.
• Develop transferable skills such as analysis, problem-solving, and drawing inferences.
• Appreciate the target language as a means of communication in the global village.
• Relate Unhu/Ubuntu/Vumunhu to the cultural values of other countries.

Assessment:

Continuous assessment throughout the four years includes speaking, listening comprehension, and writing projects. Summative assessment at the end of Form 4 consists of three papers:

• Paper 1: Writing and Translation (90 marks)
• Paper 2: Listening and Reading Comprehension (70 marks)
• Paper 3: Speaking (40 marks)