,Question 1
1.1 CAPS states that the reading instruction involves working through
elements of the reading process. This is a three-phase activity which models
independent reading strategies for decoding and understanding a text.
Discuss and illustrate with examples how each of the three reading phases
assists the learner in getting the deep meaning of a text. (15)
The three reading phases in CAPS - Constructing Meaning through the
Reading Process - assist learners in getting deep meaning from a text by
gradually building their comprehension skills. These three phases are:
1. Pre-reading Phase:
During this phase, learners engage in activities that prepare them to
understand the text. They activate their prior knowledge on the topic, set
reading goals, and make predictions about what they will read. By doing so,
learners develop connections between their existing knowledge and the text,
which helps them engage with and make meaning from the text when they
read it.
Example: Before reading a passage about penguins, learners might be asked
to discuss what they already know about penguins, make predictions about
what they expect to learn from the passage, and create questions they want
to answer during the reading.
2. During Reading Phase:
In this phase, learners read the text while applying specific strategies to
decode and understand it. They focus on various reading skills such as word
recognition, vocabulary development, and comprehension strategies.
Learners actively engage with the text by highlighting or underlining
important information, annotating unfamiliar words or concepts, and using
context clues to deduce meanings. By actively participating and using these
strategies, learners deepen their understanding of the text.
Example: While reading a poem, learners might underline words or phrases
that convey strong emotions, circle unfamiliar vocabulary words, and make
notes in the margin about their interpretation or questions they have.
3. Post-reading Phase:
, After reading the text, learners reflect on and consolidate their
understanding by responding to questions or prompts related to the text.
They summarize the main ideas, make connections to their own lives or prior
knowledge, and analyse or evaluate the content of the text. This phase
allows learners to solidify their comprehension and engage in critical
thinking.
Example: After reading a short story, learners might write a brief summary of
the plot, make connections to similar experiences they have had, and analyse
the motivations of the characters.
Overall, the three reading phases in CAPS guide learners through the process
of actively engaging with a text, building comprehension skills, and
ultimately obtaining a deeper understanding of the content. By incorporating
pre-reading activities, applying reading strategies during the reading process,
and reflecting on the text afterwards, learners develop a thorough
understanding and can apply their learning to other contexts.
1.2 Explain the following types of reading and discuss their importance in
additional language teaching:
1.2.1 Silent reading (5)
Silent reading refers to the process of reading without vocalization or any
audible sounds. It involves silently understanding and processing written
words and sentences in the mind.
The importance of silent reading in additional language teaching can be
highlighted in the following ways:
1. Comprehension: Silent reading allows learners to focus on understanding
the meaning of the text without any distractions. It enables them to create
mental images, make connections, and interpret the information in their own
way. This enhances their overall comprehension skills, enabling them to
grasp the context and meaning of the written material.
2. Speed and fluency: Silent reading helps learners develop reading speed
and fluency. By avoiding vocalization, they can read and process the text at a
faster pace. Regular practice of silent reading enhances their reading
efficiency, enabling them to read larger amounts of text in a shorter amount
of time.