THE Bible Society of South Africa(BSSA) in partnership with the Department of Basic Education has launched two Bible-based literacy booklets in isiZulu for the first time. The books that are handed out freely to children in the foundation schooling phase (grades one and two).
“We worked with the Department of Basic Education. The booklets engages all five senses to develop basic reading and writing. Teaching is made easy through the use of colourful illustrations, icons, flashcards and activities such as reading, writing, numeracy, drawing and singing. The material is based on the ‘Do and Learn Method’, developed by the late Dr Rose Botha, an educationalist,” said Mims Turley, of the Bible Society of South Africa.
This basic literacy project comprises two booklets, My First Bible Do and Learn Book (IBhayibheli lami Lokusebenzela nokufunda Incwadi-1) and My 2nd Bible Do and Learn Book (IBhayibheli lami Lokwenza nokufunda Incwadi-2).
The project is aimed at helping children with literacy. “The literacy booklet is based on the educational principles of reading and writing and it is important for children to learn to read and write in their own languages,” she added.
Turley said years ago they became aware of thousands of children in poorer areas who attend day care centres, but are not exposed to literacy. “Many of these children do not have the privilege of attending Grade R and are often behind when they start Grade 1.”
Children from disadvantaged backgrounds can get the booklets for free at the Bible Society’s KwaZulu-Natal in Mayville but they can also be purchased by calling 031 2074933.
