Natuurwetenskaplike kinderlektuur in Afrikaans : 'n vergelykende, analitiese evaluering

Abstract

There are few scientific books in the body of Afrikaans children's literature. Among those that are available, most are translated works describing the overseas environment and conditions. A questionnaire was sent to local authors of Afrikaans scientific children's books to determine the motivation for writing that particular type of book. The predominant reason was the desire of the authors to communicate their knowledge and appreciation of a specific subject. Financial considerations were of secondary importance but the costs involved appear to have played a role in influencing the authors. The requirements for textbooks in general, and scientific children's books in particular, were researched and the available Afrikaans childrens books accordingly evaluated. The books generally were found to be well presented, the contents are virtually always correct and the illustrations suitable and enlightening. A shortcoming that is a distinct disadvantage to the South African child and particularly the Afrikaans-speaking child, is the fact that the translated books, which constitute the majority, contain very few, or no, South African data. A list has been compiled containing bibliographic details as well as additional information concerning Afrikaans scientific children's books, both original and translated works. These books are listed according to subject shortcomings are indicated and recommendations made regarding subjects that could possibly serve as topics for future books. Recommendations are made that may contribute to Afrikaans children having more scientific books available to them. The recommendations include inter alia the introduction of awards for authors, the integration of South African data in translated works, more effective use of scientific books in school projects, the utilisation of the newsmedia at the launching of new books, and also sponsorship for Afrikaans scientific children's books.