,RFP2601 Assignment 2 (COMPLETE ANSWERS) Semester
1 2025 – DUE July 2025; 100% correct solutions and
explanations.
QUESTION 1 (30 marks):
1.1 Explain why reading is so important in the foundation
phase. (5)
Reading is essential in the foundation phase because it lays the
groundwork for all future learning. It supports the development
of language, vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking
skills. Reading enhances children's ability to express themselves
and understand others, which is vital for academic success and
social interaction. Furthermore, early reading proficiency is a
strong predictor of performance in other subjects, including
mathematics and science. Without strong reading skills, learners
may struggle throughout their schooling.
1.2 Rule and Land (2017:2) state that “most South African
children do not learn to read well.” Justify the reason for
their statement. (5)
This statement is justified by findings from national and
international literacy assessments (like PIRLS), which show that
a significant percentage of South African children cannot read
for meaning by the end of Grade 4. Contributing factors include
poor teaching strategies, limited access to reading materials, lack
of teacher training in teaching reading, socio-economic
challenges, and language barriers where children are taught in
, languages they do not understand well. These systemic issues
lead to weak literacy foundations.
1.3 Explain what you understand by ‘invented writing’ and
why children use invented writing. (5)
‘Invented writing’ refers to the early attempts by young children
to write words based on the sounds they hear, even if the
spelling is not correct (e.g., writing “frd” for “friend”). It reflects
their developing understanding of phonics and the alphabetic
principle. Children use invented writing as a natural step in their
literacy development. It allows them to experiment with writing,
express their thoughts, and gain confidence as they move toward
conventional spelling and writing.
1.4 By establishing print-rich classrooms, responsive reading
spaces are created that promote incidental reading. Discuss
the role of the teacher in establishing print-rich classrooms.
(5)
Teachers play a central role in creating print-rich classrooms by
displaying a variety of printed materials such as posters, charts,
labels, word walls, and learners' written work. They ensure that
books and reading materials are accessible, diverse, and age-
appropriate. Teachers also model reading behaviors, read aloud
regularly, and create engaging reading corners. Their efforts
help learners to interact with print daily, promoting incidental
reading and improving literacy skills in a meaningful and
stimulating environment.
1 2025 – DUE July 2025; 100% correct solutions and
explanations.
QUESTION 1 (30 marks):
1.1 Explain why reading is so important in the foundation
phase. (5)
Reading is essential in the foundation phase because it lays the
groundwork for all future learning. It supports the development
of language, vocabulary, comprehension, and critical thinking
skills. Reading enhances children's ability to express themselves
and understand others, which is vital for academic success and
social interaction. Furthermore, early reading proficiency is a
strong predictor of performance in other subjects, including
mathematics and science. Without strong reading skills, learners
may struggle throughout their schooling.
1.2 Rule and Land (2017:2) state that “most South African
children do not learn to read well.” Justify the reason for
their statement. (5)
This statement is justified by findings from national and
international literacy assessments (like PIRLS), which show that
a significant percentage of South African children cannot read
for meaning by the end of Grade 4. Contributing factors include
poor teaching strategies, limited access to reading materials, lack
of teacher training in teaching reading, socio-economic
challenges, and language barriers where children are taught in
, languages they do not understand well. These systemic issues
lead to weak literacy foundations.
1.3 Explain what you understand by ‘invented writing’ and
why children use invented writing. (5)
‘Invented writing’ refers to the early attempts by young children
to write words based on the sounds they hear, even if the
spelling is not correct (e.g., writing “frd” for “friend”). It reflects
their developing understanding of phonics and the alphabetic
principle. Children use invented writing as a natural step in their
literacy development. It allows them to experiment with writing,
express their thoughts, and gain confidence as they move toward
conventional spelling and writing.
1.4 By establishing print-rich classrooms, responsive reading
spaces are created that promote incidental reading. Discuss
the role of the teacher in establishing print-rich classrooms.
(5)
Teachers play a central role in creating print-rich classrooms by
displaying a variety of printed materials such as posters, charts,
labels, word walls, and learners' written work. They ensure that
books and reading materials are accessible, diverse, and age-
appropriate. Teachers also model reading behaviors, read aloud
regularly, and create engaging reading corners. Their efforts
help learners to interact with print daily, promoting incidental
reading and improving literacy skills in a meaningful and
stimulating environment.
