At present, 78% of Grade 4 children are not able to read for meaning in any South African language by the end of the academic year (source: Progress in International Reading Literacy Study 2016). The ability to read and write is one of the hallmarks of personal development required for economic progress, political-participation and self-expression, and is therefore a key skill to attain during schooling.
Beyond being an academic concern, the inability to read for meaning also places children in real danger of misreading in day-to-day life. For instance, what might look like a bottle of vinegar by its packaging and label could well be benzine.
