READING FOR COMPREHENSION

 209pp., paperback, Naledi, Gansbaai, 2025

ISBN: 9781067234515

Researchers from Stellenbosch University and WITS University offer guidance on how to combat reading challenges in South Africa's schools.

According to the 2021 Progress in International Reading Literacy Study (PIRLS), 81% of South African learners in Grade 4 cannot read at the required literacy level and have no comprehension of what they are reading.

"You will seldom find in one book a more powerful account of the reading literacy problem in South Africa’s schools, and its resolution in practice. Evidence-led and rich in their combined teaching experiences, the skillful editor assembles in one place expert authors who clinically dissect the problem of reading comprehension in a highly accessible way for teachers, researchers and the affected public. This book should be on the shelf of every teacher educator in South Africa whether in pre-or in-service education." Jonathan Jansen, Distinguished Professor of Education, Stellenbosch University

"Reading for Comprehension ... explores the foundational components of reading development. It emphasises practical solutions, including fostering a culture of reading, leveraging multilingual teaching practices, and integrating literacy across the curriculum. Anchored by insights from the PIRLS study, the book is an essential guide to improving reading outcomes and unlocking academic success." Carisma Nel, Research Professor, Northwest University

Michael le Cordeur is Emeritus Professor and NRF-rated researcher in the Education Faculty at Stellenbosch University. A former language teacher and school principal, he is currently Chair of the Foundation of Empowerment through Afrikaans. He has received various awards including Stellenbosch University Chancellor’s Award and the Neville Alexander Lifetime Achievement Award. His latest books include Covid, crisis and opportunities in education and Halala Suid-Afrika, 25 jaar se groeipyne van 'n jong demokrasie.