Using Print in the Classroom

It would be fair to say that one of the most commonly known resources to be associated with the classroom, would have to be BOOKS.

Books, however, have had to make a little space on the bookshelf for other print resources that also play an important role in an Outcomes Based Education system. The Revised National Curriculum Statement Grades R – 9 (Schools) states that the following kind of learner is envisaged:

“The curriculum aims to develop the full potential of each learner as a citizen of a democratic South Africa. It seeks to create a lifelong learner who is confident and independent, literate, numerate and multi-skilled, compassionate, with respect for the environment and the ability to participate in society as a critical and active citizen.”

What does this have to do with using print in the classroom, you might ask?
Relevancy, Relevancy and Relevancy again!

The kind of learner that is envisaged according to the new curriculum, will not be developed using materials and resources that are not relevant to everyday life!


Do you not walk, to learn to walk;
and talk, to learn to talk?


Therefore, in class, you should fill in a Bank Deposit Slip in order to learn how to fill in a Bank Deposit Slip! Not so?
It is for this exact reason that print resources become so important and exciting in the classroom. Here are some ideas of print resources (catagorised according to Learning Areas / Learning Programmes for easy reference).
Ask family, friends, parents, local shops, banks, etc. to assist you and your class in collecting as many print resources as possible.




  Print Resources  







       
Note to teachers:
These examples could be simplified or made more complex to address the grade and developmental level of your learners. Certain examples would require some adaptation to accommodate the unique needs and circumstances of your learners.
Use a variety of these print resources to make the lessons interesting, relevant and FUN!