Experiences of Turkish Children Learning English as a Second Language in South Africa: Collapsing Home-School Boundaries

Abstract

New immigrants face major challenges which affect their integration into a host country. One of their main problems is the inability to communicate in the language of the host country, as language and social practices of immigrants often differ considerably from the host country’s mainstream language and values. The aim of this paper is to explore the experiences of Turkish children who are learning English as a second language in South Africa, in an attempt to help bridge the language and literacy gaps between their homes and schools. Through interviews, home visits and observations, the paper makes recommendations for more congruency between home and school literacies.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2014.v5n10p409