The struggling reader : identifying and addressing reading problems successfully at an early stage
Date
2010
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Stellenbosch University
Abstract
The standard of reading of learners in the intermediate phase is cause for considerable concern. In this article, the intermediate phase refers to grades 4, 5 and 6 (roughly ages 10 – 12). According to the 2008 Evaluation Assessment Tests for Reading, only 15% of learners in Grade 6 achieved the required literacy level. Clearly, reading achievement is a problem in South Africa. Although approximately 4% of any given population experience neurological reading problems, the focus of this article is on the significant number of learners in the intermediate phase who experience reading problems and the generic causes of reading problems for learners in general. The intent is to alert teachers and parents to the characteristics of a struggling reader so that the problem can be identified and addressed early. Firstly, ways in which learning problems are manifested are described. Secondly, a discussion of various types of reading problems, of which four, namely poor reading comprehension, inadequate reading fluency, a lack of vocabulary and a negative attitude towards reading, are discussed in depth. Strategies for struggling readers are presented and recommendations are made. The conclusion is that learners who experience reading problems can learn to read successfully when given the necessary support.
Description
CITATION: Le Cordeur, M. 2010. The struggling reader : identifying and addressing reading problems successfully at an early stage. Per Linguam : a Journal of Language Learning, 26(2):67-76, doi:10.5785/26-2-23.
The original publication is available at http://perlinguam.journals.ac.za
The original publication is available at http://perlinguam.journals.ac.za
Keywords
Reading -- Ability testing, Reading comprehension -- Problems, exercises, etc., Developmental reading, Children -- Language
Citation
Le Cordeur, M. 2010. The struggling reader : identifying and addressing reading problems successfully at an early stage. Per Linguam : a Journal of Language Learning, 26(2):67-76, doi:10.5785/26-2-23