1. Identify the four basic elements of reading and provide a brief explanation of each element. Do not simply duplicate the information in your study guide your explanations should be phrased in your own words and demonstrate your own understanding of the concepts. (8 marks) 2. Read the poem below and answer the questions based on the poem: "Motho Ke Motho Ka Batho Babang (A Person Is a Person Because of Other People)", Jeremy Cronin By holding my mirror out of the window I see Clear to the end of the passage. There's a person down there. A prisoner polishing a doorhandle. In the mirror I see him see My face in the mirror, I see the fingertips of his free hand Bunch together, as if to make An object the size of a badge Which travels up to his forehead The place of an imaginary cap. (This means: A warder.) Two fingers are extended in a vee And wiggle like two antennae. (He's being watched.) A finger of his free hand makes a watch-hand's arc On the wrist of his polishing arm without Disrupting the slow-slow rhythm of his work. (Later. Maybe, later we can speak.) Hey! Wat maak jy daar? -a voice from around the corner. No. Just polishing baas. He turns his back to me, now watch His free hand, the talkative one, Slips quietly behind -Strength brother, it says, In my mirror, A black fist.

Question

UpStudy AI · Accepted Answer

### **Question 1: Identify the four basic elements of reading and provide a brief explanation of each element.**

**1. Phonemic Awareness:**
This is the ability to recognize and manipulate the individual sounds (phonemes) in spoken words. It's foundational for understanding how sounds form words, which is essential for decoding and pronunciation.

**2. Phonics:**
Phonics involves the relationship between letters and their corresponding sounds. It teaches readers how to connect written letters to spoken sounds, enabling them to decode new words by sounding them out.

**3. Fluency:**
Fluency refers to the ability to read text smoothly, accurately, and with appropriate expression. Fluent readers can recognize words quickly and read with rhythm, which aids in better comprehension.

**4. Comprehension:**
Comprehension is the capacity to understand and interpret what is read. It involves making sense of the text, grasping the meaning, and integrating it with prior knowledge and experiences to fully engage with the material.

---

### **Question 2: Analysis of "Motho Ke Motho Ka Batho Babang" by Jeremy Cronin**

**a. **_What is the central theme of the poem?_**

The central theme of the poem revolves around the interconnectedness of individuals and the idea that a person's identity and humanity are shaped by their relationships with others. It emphasizes solidarity, empathy, and the shared human experience.

**b. **_How does the poet use imagery to convey the relationship between the narrator and the prisoner?_**

The poet employs vivid imagery to illustrate the reflective connection between the narrator and the prisoner. For example, "holding my mirror out of the window" suggests a desire to see and understand the other person. The "fingerprints of his free hand" and the gesture of making "an object the size of a badge" symbolize authority and restraint, while the "two fingers extended in a vee" resemble "antennae," indicating surveillance and perhaps a longing for communication despite the barriers.

**c. **_What is the significance of the mirror in the poem?_**

The mirror serves as a metaphor for self-reflection and mutual recognition. By looking into the mirror, the narrator doesn't just see his own reflection but also perceives the prisoner reflecting back, highlighting their shared humanity. It underscores the theme that individuals are defined not in isolation but through their interactions and relationships with others.

**d. **_Explain the meaning of the phrase "A black fist" at the end of the poem._**

The phrase "A black fist" symbolizes strength, resistance, and solidarity. It echoes themes of unity and collective power, possibly alluding to social or political struggles. Positioned at the poem's conclusion, it reinforces the message that true humanity is forged through supportive and empowering connections with others.

**e. **_How does the poet address the concept of surveillance or being watched?_**

The poet touches on surveillance through the imagery of "two antennae" and "He's being watched." These descriptions suggest a constant observation, perhaps by authority figures like warders. This theme introduces a tension between freedom and control, highlighting the constraints imposed on individuals and the impact of external scrutiny on personal identity.

**f. **_What emotions does the poet evoke through the interaction between the narrator and the prisoner?_**

The poet evokes a mix of empathy, curiosity, and solidarity. There's a sense of longing for connection as the narrator observes and contemplates the prisoner's actions. The quiet communication and the final gesture of the "black fist" suggest a deep, unspoken bond and mutual support, despite the physical barriers that separate them.

---

This analysis aims to delve into the poem's themes, imagery, and symbolism to provide a comprehensive understanding of Jeremy Cronin's "Motho Ke Motho Ka Batho Babang."
**Question 1: Four Basic Elements of Reading** 1. **Phonemic Awareness:** Recognizing and understanding the sounds in words. 2. **Phonics:** Connecting letters to their sounds to read words. 3. **Fluency:** Reading smoothly and with expression. 4. **Comprehension:** Understanding and interpreting the meaning of text. **Question 2: Poem Analysis** 1. **Central Theme:** The poem explores how people are defined by their relationships with others, emphasizing shared humanity and solidarity. 2. **Imagery:** The mirror reflects both the narrator and the prisoner, symbolizing mutual recognition and connection. 3. **Significance of the Mirror:** It represents self-reflection and the shared human experience, showing that individuals are interconnected. 4. **Meaning of "A black fist":** Symbolizes strength and solidarity, reinforcing the theme of unity and mutual support. 5. **Surveillance:** The poem hints at being watched, introducing tension between freedom and control. 6. **Emotions Evoked:** The interaction evokes empathy, curiosity, and a sense of unspoken connection and support. This summary provides a clear understanding of the poem's themes and the poet's use of imagery and symbolism.

Real Tutor Solution

Answer

Solution

The Deep Dive

Related Questions

Latest English Questions