Senior Phase
Life Orientation
  General comment:

In the Senior Phase, there are eight Learning Programes based on the Learning Area Statements. Time allocations for each Learning Area are prescribed for all Grades and Phases. 		 
  Life Orientation:

Definition

The concept of life orientation captures the essence of what this Learning Area aims to achieve. It guides and prepares learners for life and its possibilities. Specifically, the Life Orientation Learning Area equips learners for meaningful and successful living in a rapidly changing and transforming society. The Life Orientation Learning Area is central to the holistic development of learners. It is concerned with the social, personal, intellectual, emotional and physical growth of learners, and with the way in which these facets are interrelated. The focus is the development of self-in-society. The Learning Area’s vision of individual growth is part of an effort to create a democratic society, a productive economy and an improved quality of life.

The Life Orientation Learning Area develops skills, knowledge, values and attitudes that empower learners to make informed decisions and take appropriate actions regarding:
  • health promotion;
  • social development;
  • personal development;
  • physical development and movement; and
  • orientation to the world of work.

These five focus areas of the Life Orientation Learning Area Statement all address the human and environmental rights outlined in the South African Constitution. 		 
Learning Outcome 1: HEALTH PROMOTION
The learner will be able to make informed decisions regarding personal, community and environmental health.
Assessment Standards: (Some examples)

Grade 7

We know this when the learner proposes ways to improve the nutritional value of own personal diet.

Grade 8

We know this when the learner plans an action in which laws and/or policies for protecting environmental health are applied to address an environmental health issue.

Grade9

We know this when the learner illustrates and evaluates the influence of ecological, social, economic, cultural and political factors on own personal choice of diet.
Learning Outcome 2: SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT
The learner will be able to demonstrate an understanding of and commitment to constitutional rights and responsibilities, and to show an understanding of diverse cultures and religions.
Assessment Standards: (some examples)

Grade 7

We know this when the learner discusses the application of human rights as stated in the South African Constitution.

Grade 8

We know this when the learner discusses violations of human rights and plans counter-strategies.

Grade9

We know this when the learner debates issues with regard to citizens’ rights and personal choices.
Learning Outcome 3: PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT
The learner will be able to use acquired life skills to achieve and extend personal potential to respond effectively to challenges in his or her world.
Assessment Standards: (some examples)

Grade 7

We know this when the learner reports on the implementation of strategies to enhance own and others’ self-image through positive actions.

Grade 8

We know this when the learner analyses and discusses factors which influence self-concept formation and self-motivation.

Grade9

We know this when the learner analyses and reflects on positive personal qualities in a range of contexts.
Learning Outcome 4: PHYSICAL DEVELOPMENT AND MOVEMENT
The learner will be able to demonstrate an understanding of, and participate in, activities that promote movement and physical development.
Assessment Standards: (some examples)

Grade 7

We know this when the learner participates in an outdoor adventure programme through orienteering in different environments.

Grade 8

We know this when the learner plans and participates in an adventurous recreational outdoor activity.

Grade9

We know this when the learner participates in and evaluates own performance in an adventurous recreational outdoor activity.
To view the complete Life Orientation Curriculum document, click here