siSwati Home Language - Term 4 - Week 1

Reading fluency is the ability to read a text smoothly and with expression. This week, we will practice reading short stories and poems. We will focus on how to use our voices to convey feelings and meanings in the text. Good readers pause at punctuation marks and change their tone to match the story.

Let's read a short poem together: 'The Sun is Shining'. As we read, pay attention to how we can change our voices. For example, when we say 'The sun is shining bright!' we can say it happily. When we say 'But clouds come in,' we can sound a little sad. This helps us express the poem's feelings.

Now, let's split into small groups. Each group will choose a short story from our reading corner. As you read, practice using different voices for each character. After reading, discuss with your group how the characters might feel and how you can show that in your reading. Remember to pay attention to punctuation!

For independent practice, write three sentences about your favorite animal. Use correct punctuation and try to express how the animal feels. For example, if you write about a dog, you might say, 'The dog is happy!' Make sure to read your sentences aloud, using expression to show how the dog feels.

• Reading without stopping
• Reading smoothly and with expression
• Reading very fast
• Reading only in silence

Answer: Reading smoothly and with expression

Reading fluency involves reading a text smoothly and using expression to convey meaning.

Answer: It helps convey the feelings and meanings of the text.

Using expression makes the reading more engaging and helps listeners understand the emotions in the story.

• Comma
• Period
• Exclamation mark
• Question mark

Answer: Comma

A comma indicates a pause in reading, helping to separate ideas within a sentence.

Answer: My favorite food is pizza!

The sentence uses correct punctuation with an exclamation mark to express excitement.

• Read it loudly
• Change your voice to sound curious
• Skip it
• Read it quickly

Answer: Change your voice to sound curious

A question mark indicates a question, so your voice should reflect curiosity.

Answer: Change your voice for different characters.

Changing your voice helps to differentiate characters and convey their emotions.

• You can read faster than alone
• You can hear different expressions
• You can skip parts of the text
• You can read silently

Answer: You can hear different expressions

Reading in a group allows you to hear how others express the text, which can improve your own reading.