, RFP2601 ASSESSMENT 2 2026 ANSWERS - DUE DATE JULY 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1 Explain why reading is so important in the Foundation Phase. (5)
Reading is one of the most important skills developed during the Foundation Phase because
it forms the basis for all future learning. During the early years of schooling, learners develop
the ability to recognise letters, sounds, words and sentences while simultaneously learning to
understand and interpret meaning from texts. Without strong reading skills, learners often
experience difficulties in other learning areas such as Mathematics, Life Skills and Natural
Sciences because they struggle to understand written instructions and learning materials
(Department of Basic Education [DBE], 2011).
Reading also supports language development by expanding learners' vocabulary, improving
grammar, sentence construction and communication skills. As learners are exposed to
different types of texts, they acquire new words and language structures that enhance both
their speaking and writing abilities (Pretorius & Spaull, 2016).
Furthermore, reading develops higher-order thinking skills such as analysing, predicting,
questioning, problem-solving and drawing conclusions. These cognitive skills enable learners
to think critically about information rather than simply memorising facts (Morrow, 2020).
Reading additionally promotes imagination, creativity and emotional development. Stories
expose learners to different cultures, experiences and perspectives, helping them develop
empathy, confidence and positive attitudes towards learning (Tompkins, 2017).
Finally, learners who develop strong reading skills during the Foundation Phase are more
likely to achieve academic success throughout their schooling because they transition from
"learning to read" towards "reading to learn," which is essential for lifelong learning (DBE,
2011).
QUESTION 1
1.1 Explain why reading is so important in the Foundation Phase. (5)
Reading is one of the most important skills developed during the Foundation Phase because
it forms the basis for all future learning. During the early years of schooling, learners develop
the ability to recognise letters, sounds, words and sentences while simultaneously learning to
understand and interpret meaning from texts. Without strong reading skills, learners often
experience difficulties in other learning areas such as Mathematics, Life Skills and Natural
Sciences because they struggle to understand written instructions and learning materials
(Department of Basic Education [DBE], 2011).
Reading also supports language development by expanding learners' vocabulary, improving
grammar, sentence construction and communication skills. As learners are exposed to
different types of texts, they acquire new words and language structures that enhance both
their speaking and writing abilities (Pretorius & Spaull, 2016).
Furthermore, reading develops higher-order thinking skills such as analysing, predicting,
questioning, problem-solving and drawing conclusions. These cognitive skills enable learners
to think critically about information rather than simply memorising facts (Morrow, 2020).
Reading additionally promotes imagination, creativity and emotional development. Stories
expose learners to different cultures, experiences and perspectives, helping them develop
empathy, confidence and positive attitudes towards learning (Tompkins, 2017).
Finally, learners who develop strong reading skills during the Foundation Phase are more
likely to achieve academic success throughout their schooling because they transition from
"learning to read" towards "reading to learn," which is essential for lifelong learning (DBE,
2011).
