Find English tutors near me in Pietermaritzburg

Eager to Learn English

“We will not anticipate the past; our retrospection will now be all to the future.” Are you baffled by this statement? An English tutor would say that the abovementioned quotation is an example of a malapropism. Malapropism is the use of an incorrect word in the place of a similar-sounding correct word often resulting in a humorous effect. Did you know that the term, ‘malapropism’ was coined because of the humorous aunt, Mrs. Malaprop, in the 1775 play, “The Rivals”? Shakespeare’s character, Dogberry in the play, “Much Ado About Nothing,” also spoke incorrectly due to word error causing the invention of the term, ‘Dogberryism’ being a synonym for malapropism in 1598. Thankfully we call this word error malapropism to date which is far easier on the tongue than Dogberryism. Speaking of tongue twisters, have you heard about the spoonerism error as yet? Spoonerism became an error that occurs when two vowels, consonants, or morphemes are switched. The term, ‘spoonerism’ was invented in honour of William Archibald Spooner who was an Oxford don. Spooner was absentminded and often spoke by mixing up syllables.

The real tragedy with English is its multifaceted nature. To effectively study English, you need to study English grammar rules, language, and literature.   Sometimes in a single paper, you are meant to display your comprehension skills, ability to tackle textual editing, and interpret a poem that you have seen for the first time.  Therefore, it should hardly come as a surprise that many students seek additional guidance to support them in developing the skills to master the fundamentals of English literature and language.

If you’re based in Pietermaritzburg, you can rest assured that the vibrant PMB campus is fully dedicated to teaching English.

Indulge yourself with the idea of studying English at an undergraduate level.

Why Study English Further

The introductory English course at PMB University is structured to incorporate understanding poetry, romanticism, African drama, and African literature. Studying English helps students not only academically but professionally as well. On average most students who do well in English at the end of their matric year, find themselves excelling in a variety of careers. Furthering your English studies would mean that you can teach or lecture in South Africa or abroad. You may also choose to put your love for grammar to good use by editing. Working as an editor for a top magazine or online site has many added job perks that extend beyond just checking for correct sentence construction and grammar. Pursuing English studies further could mean a career in journalism, public relations, or linguistics. Aside from the full-time jobs that you may gain from furthering your English knowledge, it will also help you earn part-time income over and above what you do. Become a freelance writer, editor, or ghost-writer during your free time. Life is far too unpredictable to be stuck in just one career, so expand your horizons.

Why Study English in Pietermaritzburg

If you happen to be pursuing your literature and language studies at The University of Kwazulu Natal, you’re in good company.

Studying under professors who have a range of degrees to their name, surely means quality education. Author Cheryl Stobie, who wrote a book entitled, “Somewhere in the Double Rainbow: Representation of Bisexuality in Post-Apartheid Novels” works as a professor in the English department.  Professor Mbogeni Zikhethele Malaba works at the university too. He has been a lecturer for quite a long time bringing his love for Namibian poetry and Zimbabwean literature into his lectures.

With so many literary buffs around the area, it is hardly surprising that Pietermaritzburg is home to some big bookstores as well. Bargain books in Chasedene offers a range of books at discounted rates to customers.  Cum Books and Exclusive Books are also in the area and offer a wide variety of book titles for the adventurous and niche-specific reader. There is also the Bible Centre which offers a range of Bibles and religious books to those interested in furthering religious reading and studies.

Having read about all the avenues available to further your love for English and to explore the world of English literature and poetry, you may be already tempted to better your English mark at school. Remember having a great foundation in the English language is a sure step to securing a spectacular career in in the future. Fortunately, there are many ways that you can seek support in your hometown to better your grasp of the language.

Forming a Study Group

To better learn English grammar and spelling perhaps form a study group at your school. Working with like-minded peers may assist you to grasp English concepts better. An alternative would be to start a book club. Get children from other schools involved and exchange books. Discuss the books that you have read to improve your comprehension skills. Most English teachers will tell you that your English mark will certainly improve if you read more.

Private English Tuition in Pietermaritzburg

For the more reserved students and those who lack confidence in the English language, asking for help in the form of private tuition may be the best solution. Private tuition can help you iron out any misconceptions and misunderstandings when it comes to grammar rules and writing rules. If you are battling with creative writing, a private session with a tutor can help stimulate your creative juices causing them to flow. You might even develop a love for English with help.

Find the Right English Tutor in Pietermaritzburg

Doing a search for the right tutor for you is of utmost importance. You must choose a tutor whom you personally feel comfortable with. The more at ease you are with your tutor, the easier it will be to learn. Superprof can lend a helping hand in your search.

The Superprof website is quick and simple to manoeuvre.  There are numerous tutors each with their own profile. This was designed to simplify the process of identifying which tutor has the characteristics, skills, and abilities that you are looking for. Also, price need not be a concern as you can search for a tutor offering lessons within your price range. An added benefit is that some Superprof tutors offer a demonstration lesson for free allowing you to get a taste of what to expect before you settle.