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Heritage Day Essay Guide for Grade 10 Learners

This page contains an essay guide for Grade 10 History learners on how to write a Heritage Day essay (introduction, body, and conclusion). On the 24th of September every year in South Africa, there is a great celebration of all cultures and heritages of all South Africans. This was after the Inkatha Freedom Party proposal in 1996.

Background on South African Heritage Day

Before you write your essay, you should first know what heritage day is and what it means.

The word ‘heritage’ can be used in different ways. One use of the word emphasises our heritage as human beings. Another use of the word relates to the ways in which people remember the past, through heritage sites, museums, through the construction of monuments and memorials and in families and communities (oral history). Some suggest that heritage is everything that is handed down to us from the past.

One branch of Heritage Studies engages critically (debates) with issues of heritage and public representations of the past, and conservation.

It asks us to think about how the past is remembered and what a person or community or country chooses to remember about the past. It is also concerned with the way the events from the past are portrayed in museums and monuments, and in traditions. It includes the issue of whose past is remembered and whose past has been left unrecognised or, for example, how a monument or museum could be made more inclusive.

Important: you should include relevant images to go with your key points. You can find plenty of images on the internet, as long as you provide the credits/sources.

When you write your Heritage Day essay as a grade 10 student, you will get great marks if you include the following structure:

• Provide a brief history linked to heritage day
• The main key issues you will be discussing throughout your essay
• Explain the changes that were made to this public holiday.
• Explain how the day is celebrated in schools, families, workplaces and other institutions like churches etc.
• How does the celebration of the holiday bring unity and close the gaps of the past?
• Explain how the celebration of the day enforces the application of the constitution of South Africa.
• What key points did your essay cover?
• What new knowledge did you learn or discover?
• What are your views on “Heritage Day”?

Example of “Heritage Day” Essay for Grade 10 Students

Below is an example of how to write an essay about Heritage Day for grade 10 learners, using the structure discussed above:

Introduction:

Heritage Day, celebrated on the 24th of September, is a South African public holiday that serves as a reminder of the nation’s rich cultural heritage and diverse history. The day was established to honor the various cultures, traditions, and beliefs that make South Africa a truly unique and diverse country. This essay will discuss the history of Heritage Day, the changes made to this public holiday, and how its celebration promotes unity and reinforces the South African Constitution .

Changes to Heritage Day:

Initially known as Shaka Day, Heritage Day was introduced to commemorate the legendary Zulu King Shaka who played a significant role in unifying various Zulu clans into one cohesive nation. However, with the advent of a democratic South Africa in 1994, the day was renamed Heritage Day to promote a broader and more inclusive celebration of the nation’s diverse cultural heritage.

Celebrations in Various Institutions:

Heritage Day is celebrated in numerous ways throughout South Africa, with schools, families, workplaces, and religious institutions all participating. In schools, students and teachers dress in traditional attire, and activities such as cultural performances, food fairs, and storytelling sessions are organized to educate learners about different cultural backgrounds. Families gather to share traditional meals, pass down stories, and engage in cultural activities. Workplaces often host events that encourage employees to showcase their diverse backgrounds, while churches and other religious institutions use the day as an opportunity to emphasize the importance of tolerance and acceptance.

Promoting Unity and Closing Gaps:

The celebration of Heritage Day has played a vital role in fostering unity and bridging the divides of the past. By appreciating and acknowledging the various cultures and traditions, South Africans learn to respect and accept one another, ultimately creating a more harmonious society. The public holiday serves as a platform to engage in conversations about the nation’s history, allowing for a better understanding of the diverse experiences that have shaped South Africa.

Enforcing the South African Constitution:

Heritage Day also reinforces the principles enshrined in the South African Constitution, which guarantees cultural and linguistic rights to all citizens. By celebrating and embracing the diverse cultures, South Africans put into practice the values of equality, dignity, and freedom as envisioned by the Constitution.

Conclusion:

In this essay, we have explored the history and significance of Heritage Day, its transformation from Shaka Day, and how it is celebrated across various institutions in South Africa. We have also discussed how the celebration of this day fosters unity and enforces the principles of the South African Constitution. Heritage Day serves as a reminder that our differences make us stronger, and that through understanding and embracing our diverse backgrounds, we can build a more inclusive and united South Africa.

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Heritage in contemporary grade 10 South African history textbooks: A case study

2012, Masters Dissertation in History Education

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This conceptual paper is based on experiences and insights which have emerged from my quest to develop a conceptual framework for working with the term 'heritage' within an education for sustainable development study that I am currently conducting. Of specific interest to me, and having potential to improve the relevance and quality of heritage education in southern Africa, given the region's inherent cultural diversity and colonial history, is the need for 'heritage construct inclusivity' within the processes constituting heritage education practices. Working around this broad research goal, I therefore needed to be clear about what I mean or refer to as heritage. I realised, however, how elusive and conceptually problematic the term 'heritage' is. I therefore, drawing from literature and experiences gained during field observations and focus group interviews, came up with the idea of working with three viewpoints of heritage. Drawing on real life cases ...

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This article focuses on the analysis of three textbooks that are based on the Curriculum and Assessment Policy Statement (CAPS), a revised curriculum from the National Curriculum Statement which was implemented in 2008. The article uses one element of a historical thinking framework, the analysis of primary sources, to evaluate the textbooks. In the analysis of primary sources the three heuristics distilled by Wineburg (2001) such as sourcing, corroborating and contextualizing are used to evaluate the utilisation of the primary sources in the three textbooks. According to the findings of this article, the writing of the three textbooks is still framed in an outdated mode of textbooks' writing in a dominant narrative style, influenced by Ranke's scientific paradigm or realism. The three textbooks have many primary sources that are poorly contextualized and which inhibit the implementation of sourcing, corroborating and contextualizing heuristics. Although, some primary sources are contextualized, source-based questions are not reflecting most of the elements of sourcing, corroborating and contextualizing heuristics. Instead, they are mostly focused on the information on the source which is influenced by the authors' conventional epistemological beliefs about school history as a compendium of facts. This poor contextualization of sources impacted negatively on the analysis of primary sources by learners as part and parcel of " doing history " in the classroom.

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School history textbooks are seen to embody ideological messages about whose history is important, as they aim both to develop an 'ideal' citizen and teach the subject of history. Since the 1940s, when the first study was done, there have been studies of South African history textbooks that have analysed different aspects of textbooks. These studies often happen at a time of political change (for example, after South Africa became a republic in 1961 or post-apartheid) which often coincides with a time of curriculum change. This article provides an overview of all the studies of South African history textbooks since the 1940s. We compiled a data base of all studies conducted on history textbooks, including post graduate dissertations, published journal articles, books and book chapters. This article firstly provides a broad overview of all the peer-reviewed studies, noting in particular how the number of studies has increased since 2000. The second section then engages in a more detailed analysis of the studies that did content analysis of textbooks. We compare how each study has engaged with the following issues: the object of study, the methodological approach, the sample of textbooks and the theoretical or philosophical orientation. The aim is to provide a broad picture of the state of textbook analysis studies over the past 75 years, and to build up a database of these studies so as to provide an overview of the nature of history textbook research in South Africa.

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Heritage Day Essay Grade 10

Heritage Day, also known as National Braai Day, is a vibrant celebration of South Africa’s rich canvas of cultures, traditions, and histories. But for me as a Grade 10 learner, it can also mean fun time!

This essay guide will equip you to conquer that Heritage Day essay and impress your teacher.

How to answer “Heritage Day Essay” correctly for Grade 10?

Let us look at the magic term: Essay . When a question asks a student to write an “Heritage day essay,” they (students) are expected to provide a structured and well-organised piece of writing that presents and supports a main idea or a position.

The essay should have an introduction that introduces the topic and states the position or a side of the writer, body paragraphs that support the thesis or position with evidence and examples based on their country of South Africa, and a conclusion that summarises the main points and restates the position (good/bad).

Marks Breakdown

Total: 55 Marks

The Topic for Heritage Day Essay for Grade 10

The red text is my handwritten answer.

I will take my essay and based it to heritage day food.

My Title:  A Rainbow on Our Plates on the South Africa’s Food Heritage day ✓

Sample Short Essay (200 words)

Heritage Day in South Africa, the 24th of September, is a day full of life, colours, tunes, and most importantly, delicious food! It is a day when we celebrate the variety of flavours that represent our country’s rich mix of cultures. From the spicy curries made by Durban’s Indian community to the slow-cooked potjiekos of the Dutch settlers’ descendants and to the delicious Mopani worms, every meal has its own tale. ✓

Let’s talk about the braai – it’s the heart of any South African party. It started with the grilling traditions of the Khoisan people and was later picked up by European settlers. Now, the braai brings everyone together, no matter their background, around tasty boerewors and juicy steaks. It’s more than just cooking; it’s a time for joy, a celebration of life, and a way to remember our shared past. ✓

The original people of South Africa have also influenced our food. Samp, a type of maize porridge, has been a main food for ages, and koeksisters – sweet, syrupy pastries – are loved all over. These foods fill us up and also link us to our land and the cleverness of our forebears. ✓

Heritage Day is about more than just enjoying a good braai. It’s a time to value the different food traditions that have helped shape our nation. When we share meals with friends and family from various cultures, we get to know more about them, and together, we build a South Africa that welcomes everyone. ✓

Remember: This is just a sample, adjust the length and content according to your specific essay requirements.

Tips to Score Big:

• Go beyond the braai: Explore lesser-known aspects of heritage like traditional crafts, music, or languages.
• Show, don’t tell: Instead of just stating facts, use vivid descriptions and historical context to bring your essay to life.
• Source it right: Include in-text citations if required, and provide a reference list at the end.
• Proofread like a pro: Typos and grammatical errors can cost you marks. Double-check your work before submission.

By following these tips and understanding the marking scheme, you’ll be well on your way to writing a stellar Heritage Day essay that celebrates the vibrant tapestry of South Africa.

Shama Nathoo

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Explanation of The Changes that were Made to Heritage Day in South Africa

On this page, we explain the changes that were made to this (Heritage Day) public holiday.

Explanation of the Changes that were Made to Heritage Day in South Africa – the brief history linked to heritage day: Heritage Day , a public holiday celebrated on September 24th in South Africa, has experienced significant changes over the years. Initially known as Shaka Day , the holiday has expanded its focus to honor the diverse cultural wealth of the nation. This article delves into the evolution of Heritage Day and the influence of key events such as the renaming to “ Braai Day ” and the inclusion of Dingaan in the festivities.

The Changes that were Made to Heritage Day in South Africa

Heritage Day, a public holiday celebrated on September 24th in South Africa, has experienced significant changes over the years. Some of the changes that were made to Heritage Day are the following:

Change 1: Shaka Day: The Origin of Heritage Day

Before it became known as Heritage Day, September 24th was celebrated as Shaka Day in honor of the legendary Zulu King, Shaka Zulu. Shaka played a pivotal role in uniting various Zulu clans into a single, powerful kingdom during the early 19th century. The day served as a reminder of the strength and unity that the Zulu nation achieved under his leadership.

Change 2: The Inclusion of Dingaan

Over time, the focus of the holiday began to shift to include other prominent figures in South African history. Dingaan , Shaka’s half-brother, and successor, was one such individual. Although his rule was marked by controversy and conflict, Dingaan’s story became an essential part of the Zulu heritage narrative . By incorporating figures like Dingaan, Heritage Day began to represent a broader spectrum of South Africa’s complex history.

Change 3: From Shaka Day to Heritage Day

The transformation of Shaka Day to Heritage Day occurred in 1995 when South Africa’s first democratically elected government, led by Nelson Mandela , sought to create a more inclusive celebration. Recognizing the rich cultural diversity of South Africa, Heritage Day was established to commemorate the contributions of all South Africans – regardless of their cultural or racial background.

Change 4: The Emergence of Braai Day

In 2005, a new tradition was introduced to Heritage Day – the concept of “Braai Day.” Braai, a South African term for barbecue, is a popular social activity that transcends racial and cultural boundaries. The idea behind Braai Day was to encourage South Africans to come together around a fire and share their cultural dishes, stories, and experiences.

The initiative, supported by figures such as Archbishop Desmond Tutu , gained popularity over the years, further emphasizing the inclusive nature of the holiday. While some South Africans prefer to celebrate the original significance of Shaka Day, many others have embraced Braai Day as a way to foster unity among the country’s diverse population.

Historic Timelines of The Changes that were Made to Heritage Day in South Africa

Heritage Day, also known as National Braai Day, is a public holiday in South Africa that is celebrated annually on September 24th. Over the years, several changes have been made to the way the holiday is observed. Here is a brief overview of the changes that were made on heritage day:

• 1995: In 1995, Heritage Day was first introduced as a public holiday in South Africa by the government. It was intended to be a day for all South Africans to celebrate their diverse cultural heritage.
• 2005: In 2005, the idea of National Braai Day was introduced by Jan Braai (real name Jan Scannell). He called on all South Africans to unite around a fire and celebrate their heritage by cooking and eating together.
• 2007: In 2007, the name National Braai Day was changed to Braai4Heritage, in an effort to emphasize the heritage aspect of the holiday.
• 2015: In 2015, a new campaign was launched by the government to encourage South Africans to embrace their cultural diversity and heritage. The theme for the year was “ Our Indigenous Knowledge, Our Heritage : Towards the Identification, Promotion, and Preservation of South Africa’s Living Heritage”.
• 2020: In 2020, due to the COVID-19 pandemic, celebrations for Heritage Day were limited to virtual events and smaller gatherings. The theme for the year was “Celebrating South Africa’s Living Human Treasures”.

These are just some of the changes that have been made to Heritage Day in South Africa over the years. The holiday remains an important occasion for South Africans to celebrate their cultural heritage and diversity.

The Origins of Heritage Day: South Africa

The brief history linked to heritage day

Heritage Day in South Africa has its roots in the country’s complex history of racial and cultural diversity. Prior to the fall of apartheid, South Africa was deeply divided along racial lines, and many aspects of traditional culture were suppressed or discouraged by the government.

Following the first democratic elections in 1994, the new government sought to promote national unity and reconciliation by celebrating the country’s rich cultural heritage. In 1995, Heritage Day was introduced as a public holiday to give all South Africans an opportunity to celebrate their diverse backgrounds and traditions.

The idea behind Heritage Day is to encourage South Africans to learn about and appreciate the different cultural and religious traditions that make up the country’s unique identity. The holiday is meant to promote tolerance, understanding, and respect for all South Africans, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or background.

Over the years, Heritage Day has become an important symbol of South Africa’s cultural and social diversity, and it continues to be celebrated across the country with festivals, music, dance, and other cultural events.

The evolution of Heritage Day in South Africa reflects the nation’s journey towards unity and inclusiveness. From its beginnings as Shaka Day to the current celebrations that include Braai Day and the recognition of figures like Dingaan, Heritage Day has become a symbol of South Africa’s rich cultural tapestry. By honoring the different traditions, customs, and histories that make up this beautiful country, Heritage Day serves as a powerful reminder of the strength that lies in diversity.

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How is heritage day celebrated in schools families workplaces and churches in south africa.

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Heritage Day

September 24 was previously known as Shaka Day. The holiday honored Shaka , a famous Zulu king. After apartheid came to an end in South Africa, the government introduced new public holidays. Shaka Day was not included in the list. The Inkatha Freedom Party, which has many Zulu members, asked that Shaka Day also be observed. The government then decided that there should be a public holiday on which all South Africans could celebrate their heritage.

Heritage Day was first celebrated on September 24, 1995. Archbishop emeritus Desmond Tutu used the term “rainbow nation” to describe South Africa’s diverse cultures, customs, traditions, histories, and languages. Heritage Day is a celebration of this variety.

The Department of Arts and Culture organizes annual meetings to celebrate Heritage Day. It chooses a theme for each year’s Heritage Day celebrations.

Heritage can be described as that which a country’s population inherits. This includes its wildlife and natural beauty, sites of scientific or historical importance, national monuments, historical buildings, artworks, literature, music, oral traditions, and museum collections.

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