"Good reading and writing skills are not only essential for effective communication in today's world - they also forms the basis of a child's continuing education and therefore need to be mastered in the first few years of schooling. Literacy in the Foundation Phase discusses the teaching of English as home language in grades 1, 2 an 3 as described by the Curriculum and Assesment Policy Statement (CAPS) of 2011. It also touches on the teaching of literacy in grade R. Literacy in the Foundation Phase focuses on the practical teaching of English. In addition, the book's strong research foundation will enhance any researcher's knowledge of literacy and how to teach it. The assessment of each language skill is discussed, and examples are provided. This edition offers a theoretical background to language development and basic literacy. The book is premised on the importance of a solid language foundation as key to effective learning, and although it advocates the desirability of mother-tongue education, a chapter on the teaching of English as an additional language is included."-- Back cover.