National symbols and citizenship
The Constitution, democracy, citizens’ rights and duties, and the meaning of the coat of arms. Read one part at a time and tap “I know this”. Then test yourself in the quiz.
Know it already? Jump straight to the quiz
The coat of arms
| Part | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Wheat ears | Fertility and growth |
| Elephant tusks | Wisdom, strength, moderation and eternity |
| Spear and knobkierie | Defence and authority; lying down, they mean peace |
| Human figures (from San rock art) | Unity |
| Motto: !ke e: ǀxarra ǁke | Diverse people unite |
| Secretary bird | Protection and the rise of the nation |
| Rising sun | New life, light and energy |
| Protea | The beauty of our land and the flowering of our potential |
| Shield | Our identity and spiritual defence |
National symbols give people a shared identity. The anthem uses five languages to include our diversity. The national animal is the springbok.
Citizens
- A citizen lawfully belongs to a country.
- Right to education → responsibility to attend school and learn.
- Right to be safe → do not hurt others. Right to a clean environment → do not litter. Right to equality → treat everyone fairly. Right to freedom of speech → do not use words to hurt others.
- Discrimination is unfair treatment: say it is wrong and get help.
Remember this and test yourself
- The Constitution is the highest law; the Bill of Rights protects every person’s basic rights.
- A democracy is a government chosen by the people; you may vote at 18.
- Parliament makes the laws; the President is the head of state.
- A good citizen obeys the law, respects others and contributes.
- The flag was adopted in 1994; the coat of arms on 27 April 2000.
Write these points in your book. Read them again the night before the test.
The spear and knobkierie on the coat of arms lie down: weapons laid down mean peace.
Important words
First say what the word means, then turn the card over.
Match column A to column B
Tap a word in column A, then its meaning in column B. You can also start in column B.
True or false?
Read the question and the answer. Is the answer right? Tap True or False.
Now the real quiz!
The quiz has many more questions on this topic. Every question shows straight away whether you are right and explains why.
Take the quiz: National symbols and citizenship- Read one part together and ask your child to tell it back in their own words.
- The ticks (“I know this”) are saved on this device only. We never ask for names or emails.
Follows CAPS for Grade 6 Life Skills. Always check your teacher’s notes and textbook too.