ASSIGNMENT ONE
HED4814: Psychology of Education
Total Marks: 50
(Marks will be converted to a percentage)
Due Date: 4 May 2026
Instructions
• Carefully read the case study provided below.
• Respond to all questions, ensuring each answer is coherent, well-argued, and
supported by credible academic sources.
• Poorly referenced or purely descriptive answers will be penalised.
• Your responses should demonstrate critical engagement, conceptual understanding,
and analytical depth.
• Use APA referencing for all citations and your reference list.
• Include the student declaration of academic honesty from Tutorial Letter 101/0/2025.
• Submit the assignment as a typed PDF document (Times New Roman, 12pt, 1.5
spacing).
• Only PDF submissions will be accepted.
Case Study: Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties in a South African School Context
Lerato is a 13-year-old Grade 7 learner attending a public school in Soweto, Johannesburg. In
recent months, educators have observed a noticeable decline in Lerato’s academic
performance, accompanied by frequent emotional outbursts in the classroom. Lerato appears
increasingly frustrated, struggles with emotional self-regulation, and has withdrawn from
interactions with peers. Teachers have reported several incidents where Lerato raises their
voice at classmates and refuses to engage in group-based activities.
These concerns became more pronounced after Lerato’s family encountered a significant
financial setback. Lerato’s mother, who previously provided the primary household income,
lost her job. Consequently, the family was forced to move into a smaller dwelling within an
informal settlement. This sudden change has disrupted Lerato’s routine, contributing to
heightened anxiety and defensive behaviour.
Although teachers have attempted traditional disciplinary measures, these interventions have
not improved Lerato’s behaviour. Several staff members believe the difficulties may stem from
psychological distress associated with home circumstances and limited coping skills. The Life
Orientation educator has recommended an approach that combines Emotional Intelligence (EI)
1
HED4814: Psychology of Education
Total Marks: 50
(Marks will be converted to a percentage)
Due Date: 4 May 2026
Instructions
• Carefully read the case study provided below.
• Respond to all questions, ensuring each answer is coherent, well-argued, and
supported by credible academic sources.
• Poorly referenced or purely descriptive answers will be penalised.
• Your responses should demonstrate critical engagement, conceptual understanding,
and analytical depth.
• Use APA referencing for all citations and your reference list.
• Include the student declaration of academic honesty from Tutorial Letter 101/0/2025.
• Submit the assignment as a typed PDF document (Times New Roman, 12pt, 1.5
spacing).
• Only PDF submissions will be accepted.
Case Study: Emotional and Behavioural Difficulties in a South African School Context
Lerato is a 13-year-old Grade 7 learner attending a public school in Soweto, Johannesburg. In
recent months, educators have observed a noticeable decline in Lerato’s academic
performance, accompanied by frequent emotional outbursts in the classroom. Lerato appears
increasingly frustrated, struggles with emotional self-regulation, and has withdrawn from
interactions with peers. Teachers have reported several incidents where Lerato raises their
voice at classmates and refuses to engage in group-based activities.
These concerns became more pronounced after Lerato’s family encountered a significant
financial setback. Lerato’s mother, who previously provided the primary household income,
lost her job. Consequently, the family was forced to move into a smaller dwelling within an
informal settlement. This sudden change has disrupted Lerato’s routine, contributing to
heightened anxiety and defensive behaviour.
Although teachers have attempted traditional disciplinary measures, these interventions have
not improved Lerato’s behaviour. Several staff members believe the difficulties may stem from
psychological distress associated with home circumstances and limited coping skills. The Life
Orientation educator has recommended an approach that combines Emotional Intelligence (EI)
1
