Teaching reading in a multi-grade class: Teachers’ adaptive skills and teacher agency in teaching across grade R and grade 1

Labby Ramrathan,Jabu Mzimela

doi:10.4102/sajce.v6i2.448

Labby Ramrathan, Jabu Mzimela

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.4102/sajce.v6i2.448

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Abstract

<p>The skill of reading is regarded as the cornerstone of literacy learning in the foundation phase. Although it is the most complex skill to master, it forms part of literacy teaching. Most learners begin schooling without having any kind of exposure to reading. This lack of exposure introduces a number of challenges, which are consequently exacerbated if teachers have to teach in multi-grade classes. This case study was conducted in two primary schools in the Ndwedwe Circuit in KwaZulu-Natal. It is framed within the interpretive epistemology <br />embedded in a qualitative research methodology. Empirical data were generated from two rural schools where multi-grade teaching was undertaken. To produce data, two teachers teaching multi-grade classes (incorporating both grade R and grade 1) were observed during an isiZulu Home Language reading period. Subsequently, semi-structured interviews were used to elicit more data for corroboration of findings. The findings show that teacher agency is crucial <br />in making adaptive decisions. These decisions are based on the intersection of formal knowledge, situational knowledge and experiential knowledge that the teachers have acquired over time.</p>

Highlights

Miss K taught both grades R and One simultaneously
The realities of multi-grade teaching through this case study are complex, the teacher being the central influencing factor in mediating teaching and learning
Teacher agency has been identified as crucial in making adaptive decisions, which were based on the intersection of formal knowledge, situational knowledge and experiential knowledge that the teachers have acquired over time

Summary

Introduction

Miss K taught both grades R and One simultaneously Learners from both grades were asked to say and act the recitation ‘Nogwaja bengihambe ngayizolo’. This is a rhyme about a rabbit which was taught on the previous day. Learners from both grades were asked to rhyme simultaneously. The teacher showed them some pictures of animals (rhino, giraffe, monkey, zebra, buffalo and a buck). She asked learners to tell her what these animals were called. The teacher explained where these animals lived and asked whether learners had seen them. The learners indicated that they had not seen these animals

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