Abstract
D.Ed.
The purpose of this study was to devise a reading strategy programme to support ex aid class pupils presently placed in standard four who are beginning to manifest reading problems. To attain this goal an in-depth study of learning in general was undertaken. The ultimate goal of emediation is to lead the child to self-regulated learning. The literature study revealed that learning-disabled pupils also experience cognitive, affective and social problems which, in turn, influence their learning activities. These problems inhibit their ability to become self regulated learners. Reading is a complex activity and reading problems are the most common learning problem manifested by learning-disabled pupils. The inability to read-to-learn is the cause of their poor academic progress. The study focused on the presentation of reading strategies, as part of learning strategies, to improve reading comprehension. The researcher made use of a metacognitive approach
and by so doing, attempted to lead the pupils to problem solving reading behaviour.
A needs-analysis of ex aid class pupils with reading problems in Johannesburg confirmed this negative tendency. The pupils' language background, general knowledge and reading ability varied. The researcher thus decided to undertake a qualitative research project in the form of a case study. This decision was supported by the literature study concerning remediation of learning-disabled pupils.For the above reasons it was decided to observe the reading behaviour of the pupils as well as the development of the intensive programme in a small group situation. By so doing, the data would clearly reveal the reading behaviour as well as the development of the programme.