Grade 6 and 7 pupils from across Johannesburg took part in the quiz that was sponsored by The Times.
The quiz combines the distribution of fiction books into under-resourced primary schools to help teachers and pupils develop literacy into a fun and enjoyable experience.
There were 16 schools that competed in the Johannesburg quiz, witnessed by special guest Mr Poltedi Ngoepe, from the Department of Education. Nearly 1 000 books were sponsored by publishers, Exclusive Books and The Times newspaper.
Pupils, who have been enthusiastically preparing for the quiz since April, were tested on material extracted from the 23 books donated to them. Quizmaster and founder of the Phendulani Literacy Quiz, Ms Marj Brown, conducted the event. She is also a librarian and teacher at the Roedean Girls Senior School.
There were prizes at the end of each round, as well as spot prizes for being able to answer individual questions between the rounds. Every child who participated in the quiz received a book and the winner in the top three were given a book, sponsored by Exclusive Books.
“It is encouraging to see the levels of literacy rise in these schools. Most importantly, it is good to see the children enjoying reading – something that will enhance their progress in all subjects besides their level of critical thinking, imagination, knowledge and emotional happiness,” said Ms Brown.
