Whose reading translates into mastery in English First Additional Language at Intermediate Phase?

Abstract

Background A large number of studies have established that reading for comprehension in South African schools is comparably poor relative to other Southern African states. Some of these studies confirm that learners' competency in reading in English is lacking when contextualised in a learning environment. Various systemic evaluations were conducted intended to establish the gap in the literacy and numeracy of learners as the average achieved in Grade 3 for reading with comprehension was only 39%. Furthermore, a recent study found that only 19% of South Africa's Grade 4 learners can read for meaning. Objective To investigate whose reading translates to mastery in English First Additional Language (EFAL) in the intermediate phase. Method An interpretive paradigm, using a qualitative approach was used. Four teachers from two schools were purposively selected for this study. The research involved the participation of 234 learners in Grade 4 and 152 learners in Grade 5 totaling 386 participants. Results Teachers in the intermediate phase possess pedagogical content knowledge (PCK) which is strengthened by the subject matter knowledge in the teaching of reading in EFAL. While teachers demonstrate PCK, there is a necessity for enhancing the aspect of imparting knowledge of reading for meaning to learners. Conclusion Teachers were knowledgeable in demonstrating diverse skills in the teaching of reading for meaning. Contribution This study generates specific strategies for teachers to exhibit their PCK in developing and improving reading for meaning.