Resources supporting teachers in coming to grips with the complexities of teaching in South Africa

In this article, we focus on the Teaching and Learning Resource Centre (TLRC) - based in the School of Education at the University of Cape Town (UCT) - which has as its primary aim in-service teacher education and support, provided through courses, workshops, and a wide range of resources. The Centre also develops and publishes books and teaching packs, some of which originate from their courses. Nalini Parsotam, TLRC Resources Coordinator, reports on three resources published recently.

RESISTING RACISM

Authors: Carola Eyber, Dorothy Dyer and Ruth Versfeld
Although South African schools are now open to all, racism in education is still rife. Teachers showed a need for guidance in managing the changing dynamics of their classrooms. This books aims to discuss and understand many of the beliefs and assumptions underlying various programmes dealing with racism. It is also a starting point for teachers and schools to reflect on their practices and to help develop new strategies.

Psychological and sociological reasons for racism are discussed, and four ways of looking at these issues are described. Each suggests practical ways of dealing with the problem. The second section of the book deals with multi-cultural and anti-racist education, but from a slightly different angle, looking at curriculum debates about race, culture and equality.

The last part examines, amongst other things, concerns that teachers have, such as dealing with the "language problem" and how to involve parents.

The book attempts to explain the limitations of assimilation, suggesting strongly that schools critically re-examine their politics and practices affecting racism.

WORDS FOR ALL - A handbook for multilingual classes

Authors: Ruth Versfeld and Dorothy Dyer
This book was originally based on a course run by the TLRC in 1994, parts of which were filmed and made into a video by the National Language Project. The book contains practical ideas designed to help teachers to use languages as resources in all learning areas. It also explores the link between learning and language, as well as how to affirm and develop the first languages of all students. A variety of ways of affirming, acknowledging, and developing these languages are described.

Past attitudes and new approaches to language and learning, as well as the concept of multilingualism, are discussed. Guidelines for acknowledging other languages are offered. Other sections of the book deal with:
•    how first languages are integrated into lessons;
•    how language is learnt;
•    practical ways of helping with language development in all learning areas; and
•    how to encourage students to work with subject matter in whatever language they choose.
•    Other aspects dealt with are assessment, groupwork, and developing school policy.

DINEO LE SESOMO - A story in four languages

Author: Mathabo Ramabeleha, Illustrator: Loyiso Qanya
This is a multilingual story, told in four South African languages, namely Sesotho, Afrikaans, Xhosa and English.

The story is based on a Sesotho folk tale centring around two sisters, Dineo and Sesomo. The one is kind, compassionate, and respectful of her elders, while the other is selfish and disrespectful. In the tradition of folk tales, the one gets rewarded while the other gets punished! It has 14 full-page black and white illustrations, is ideal to teach both first and second (additional) languages, and can be used effectively in multilingual classes.

For more information about these and other resources, the TLRC can be contacted at the following address:

School of Education
University of Cape Town
Private Bag
Rondebosch 7700
Telephone: 021 650 3276
Fax: 021 650 3489
E-mail: tlrc@education.uct.ac.za