Five ways to make the most of your community library

Posted by Letswalo L Marobane on 12 September 2023, 15:10 SAST

When you were growing up were you lucky enough to have a library at your school or near where you lived? Did you ever visit it and use it? And, what experiences of using the library are you offering your children as they grow up?

In South Africa, far too many people still do not have access to libraries but those of us that do have a wonderful resource to draw on and to expose our children to. Research published by the National Literacy Trust in the UK shows that there is a definite link between children and young people who use libraries and good reading skills – young people who use the library are nearly twice as likely to be above-average readers than those who don’t.

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Ten reasons why you and your kids should visit the library

Posted by Letswalo L Marobane on 12 September 2023, 15:05 SAST

1. Help your children be better readers. Research published by the National Literacy Trust shows that young people (aged 8 to 16) who use the library are nearly twice as likely to be above-average readers than youngsters who don’t.

2. Establish the reading habit. Weekly or fortnightly trips to the library help you and your children make a regular “date” with books and so you all get into the habit of reading – something that your children can enjoy for the rest of their lives!

3. Something for everyone. Libraries offer books for all ages and interests, all under one roof – from board books for babies, to picture books for young children, and novels and information books for older children and adults.

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Getting students involved in your school library

Posted by Janice Scheckter on 29 August 2023, 16:45 SAST

Regardless of the age of your students, actively involving them in the running of your library has multiple benefits. It can enhance reading engagement, help with developing a school-wide reading culture, provide students with leadership opportunities, and promote the role of your library within your school. Students like to be heard and will feel valued if you seek their opinions and then act on that information. After all, the students are your ‘customers’ so the library needs to be relevant and provide the things that they want,

Photo by Mikhail Nilov: https://www.pexels.com/photo/two-men-in-the-library-9158718/

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As educators within the African community, we are aware that our students come from diverse backgrounds and have unique learning styles. Embracing this diversity and creating an inclusive environment in our classrooms is paramount to empowering all our students. The following are five strategies that can help us achieve this goal:

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Many different approaches are used in the world of language learning but not all are best suited to every learner. Inquiry-based learning allows students to take their learning in different directions best suited to their interests and skills. The following are four way as to why you should consider using Inquiry based instrusction.

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Education plays a crucial role in shaping the future of any nation. For African educators, the responsibility is even more significant, as we strive to provide quality education despite various challenges. It is important to use diverse teaching strategies in our teaching. Let us explore the importance of using different teaching strategies and how they can empower us to unlock the full potential of our students.

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It is essential to have a clear understanding of the nuances within language instruction. In the English language space, three key components often come up namely grammar, usage, and mechanics. While these terms are sometimes used concurrently, they actually represent distinct aspects of language. Let us look into the differences between grammar, usage, and mechanics, and highlight their significance.

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Let us dive into the world of language and discover how we can empower our students to become confident writers and communicators. Grammar, usage, and mechanics are the three pillars that support effective language skills, and they are vital for our student's success in English.

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View our resources on parent-teacher collaboration

It has been proven that positive connections between parents and teachers can improve a child's academic career, social competencies and emotional well-being. Collaborating as partners, parents and teachers enhance communication, strengthens relationships and cultivates skills to effectively support students behaviours and learning.

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African writers are increasingly recognising the significance of African literature. Writers and literary enthusiasts across the continent are highlighting the importance of writing and reading books in African languages as a means to preserve and restore Africa's identity. Literature serves as a powerful tool that encompasses Africa's diverse cultural, political, and economic heritage. There is a profound impact of African literature and its role in imparting knowledge, promoting critical thinking, preserving history, and empowering future generations. African literature plays a significant role in the following:

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