Take private Zulu lessons

Find Zulu Lessons to Support Your Studies

In a country that has 11 official languages, opportunities are plentiful for South Africans who want to become multilingual. It also goes without saying that in such an ethnically rich location, multilingualism opens doors for opportunity.   

While English is the most prolifically spoken language in the world, and one of the 11 official languages, in South Africa, it is only the first language of one in 10 people. Having said this, isiZulu which is spoken by almost 25% of the population is the most widely spoken language in South Africa.  Next in line is isiXhosa which is spoken by around 16% of the locals. 

Interestingly, because Xhosa and Zulu are so similar, even mutually understandable, it is not unusual for second and third language students to consider the benefits of taking either isiXhosa or Zulu lessons. This is a decision that could be based on your location. For example, if you live in the Western or Eastern Cape and expect to work or study there, then learning Xhosa will make more sense. If, however, you live in other parts of South Africa, particularly KwaZulu-Natal, then Zulu should be your choice.

Should you decide that Zulu lessons are the way forward, you’ll notice that the language bears many confusing similarities to Xhosa. Be on the lookout for these words with different meanings:

• Ncokolo:  to tease (Zulu); to chat (Xhosa)
• Nzima:  difficult (Zulu); heavy (Xhosa)
• Sela: a thief (Zulu); to drink (Xhosa)
• Thetha: to shout (Zulu); to talk (Xhosa)
• Phuza: to drink (Zulu); to kiss (Xhosa)
• Cinga: to search (Zulu); to think (Xhosa)

Perhaps you’re a  Zulu student already and need that extra bit of academic support with a private tutor?  

A Private Zulu Teacher for Matric Students

If you made the decision to take isiZulu as a matric subject, then it would be no surprise if you have encountered a few hurdles along the way. Regardless of whether you are learning Zulu as a first or third language, it is complex and often requires extra tuition.   

Are You Studying Impi Yabomdabu Isethunjini?

If you’re in Grade 12 and need extra help with Impi Yabomdabu Isethunjini which is CAPS approved Zulu literature. For Grade 11 students, this is a book that you can look forward to.

About a divided family, the book is about the Ngubane family’s first son, Mbhabhadisi who lives a good life Umlazi. Linono, Mbhabhadisi’s sister marries a sugar cane farmer, but her in-laws refuse to accept her fatherless children. As a consequence, her uncle Ndosi Cele takes care of her children until he capitulates to the community pressure to send the children to live an urban life in the city.  Mbhabhadisi, however, declines any responsibility to help so he and his wife are represented as the story villains who make one blunder after another. 

The book, as well as other Grade 12 setwork and poetry in Zulu can be challenging to master particularly when it comes to essay writing that demonstrates comprehension. Fortunately, Zulu lessons with a private teacher can support you and help to make sure that you achieve the highest possible marks.   

What About a Zulu Teacher for Beginners?

If your native language is not derived from the Nguni languages, then isiZulu studies will be completely foreign. Taking lessons will bridge that gap, but what can you expect from a good Zulu teacher?   

In a nutshell, you will learn the multifaceted grammatical structure of Zulu as well as how to master those fantastic clicks! As you progress in Zulu grammar, an important part of your tutor’s role will be to help you to deconstruct root words and prefix combinations. All of this is easily achieved in private isiZulu lessons. Also, don’t forget that the traditions of isiZulu are found in the ancient art of storytelling and this is why storytelling, proverbs, metaphors and poetry have important roles to play in the studying of the language.   

Who Teaches IsiZulu Lessons?

Depending on your level of ability as well as your goals and budget for your IsiZulu lessons, there are several types of tutors at your disposal, especially when you know where to look.

If you are prepared to work with an online Zulu teacher there are over 2000 tutors on  Superprof to assist you. In addition, tutor credentials are pre-verified for your peace of mind and in most cases, you could receive a free first lesson to make sure that you are a good personality fit.   

In terms of fees, these range depending on the background and qualification of the tutor. You could easily find a teacher with a formal educational qualification. Alternatively, there are first language Zulu students who are acing distinctions and even ordinary Zulu speaking people who are qualified to teach conversational Zulu. The offerings are wide-ranging and flexible with average lessons only costing about R123 per hour.