Most of the teaching time in the RNCS is dedicated to the Languages Learning Area, namely 40% of the learning time in the Foundation Phase and 25% in the Intermediate Phase. Reading is a core component of this learning area, and a core competence for successful learning in all learning areas.

Various approaches must be used in the teaching of reading. These approaches include phonics, sight word, linguistic, whole language and language experience. The teaching of reading must allow for different learning styles and must equip learners with a range of techniques and strategies to help them to read at the appropriate level for information and enjoyment, as specified in the RNCS.

Half an hour a day must be set aside for a reading period in every primary school. All teachers must be in their classrooms at this time. A variety of reading methods must be used, but the emphasis must be on individual reading. Learners who are struggling with reading may receive appropriate support during this time. The main resource is provided by the 100+ Books Project. Provision can be made on the timetable for the half-hour by

• either extending the school day (This must be done with the agreement of teachers and parents.)

• or using time from each learning area or learning programme, in proportion to the time allocated to it in the curriculum.

The Grade 8 and 9 Reading Policy ( WCED Circular 159/2002 ) requires all learners at these levels to read for 20 minutes a day. The policy offers three options for implementation: a dedicated reading period or integrated into Languages or integrated across the curriculum.

Advice in this regard may be obtained from the following EMDC Literacy Co-ordinators:

Metropole Central:        Mr G Davids         021 659 4423
Metropole East:           Ms K Mabandla       021 900 7014
Metropole North:          Ms J Caroto         021 938 3018
Metropole South:          Ms J Leukes         021 370 2044
                          Ms S Slingers       021 374 4107
                          Ms M Kwinana        021 372 2770
Breede River/Overberg:    Ms M Siddle         023 348 4608
South Cape/Karoo:         Ms C du Plessis     044 803 8300
West Coast/Winelands:     Ms J Baatjes        082 374 5759
                          Ms F Lawrence       082 895 5646
                          Mr R Cornelissen    083 642 1618