ZIMSEC SCHOOL BASED ENGLISH PROJECT
Project Information
Name: Chimhini Takutendaiishe
Candidate Number: 3019
Centre Number: 060416
Centre Name: Victoria High School
Address: Masvingo, 241
Learning Area: English Language
Project Title: The Decline of Reading Culture Among Students at Victoria High School
Stage 1: Problem Identification
1.1 Description of the Problem
At Victoria High School, I have observed that most students rarely read books outside the prescribed
textbooks. This decline in reading habits is affecting vocabulary development, creativity, and overall
academic performance, especially in subjects like English that depend heavily on comprehension and
expression. Many students now prefer spending time on social media or playing mobile games instead of
engaging with books that can improve their knowledge and language skills.
1.2 Statement of Intent
Through this project, I intend to explore the causes behind the declining reading culture among students at
Victoria High School. My aim is to investigate possible solutions and come up with practical ideas that can
revive students' interest in reading for enjoyment and academic growth.
1.3 Project Specifications
- Target group: Students at Victoria High School
- Focus area: English Language and literacy development
- Methods: Observations, questionnaires, peer discussions, and review of solutions
- Desired outcome: To improve the reading culture among students
Stage 2: Investigation of Related Ideas
2. Investigation of Related Ideas
ZIMSEC SCHOOL BASED ENGLISH PROJECT
Idea 1: Setting Up a Reading Competition
Merits: Encourages reading through rewards and recognition. Motivates students to read more books.
Demerits: Only a few competitive students may participate. Others may feel left out.
Idea 2: Creating a Book Club
Merits: Encourages group discussions, teamwork, and exposure to different genres.
Demerits: Needs time, commitment, and regular meetings which some students may not attend.
Idea 3: Installing a Mobile Library
Merits: Makes books easily accessible. Encourages reading anywhere on campus.
Demerits: Expensive to set up and maintain. Risk of books being lost or damaged.
Stage 3: Generation of Possible Solutions
3. Generation of Ideas / Possible Solutions
Idea 1: Reading Corners in Classrooms
Merits: Easy to set up using donated books and shelves. Accessible to every student.
Demerits: Space may be limited in some classrooms.
Idea 2: Weekly "Drop Everything and Read" Time
Merits: Allocates time for reading during the school week. Makes reading a habit.
Demerits: Teachers need to adjust their lesson plans to allow for this.
Idea 3: Reading Challenges on Notice Boards
Merits: Publicly motivates students. Simple to run.
Demerits: May not engage students who are not already interested in reading.
Stage 4: Development of Chosen Idea
4. Development of Chosen Idea
Chosen Idea: Weekly 'Drop Everything and Read' Time
ZIMSEC SCHOOL BASED ENGLISH PROJECT
Justification of Choice:
1. It encourages all students to participate in reading at the same time, promoting a school-wide culture.
2. It can be incorporated into the existing school timetable without needing extra resources.
Refinements:
1. Each class can select their preferred reading material with teacher guidance.
2. A reading logbook can be introduced for students to track what they read.
3. Teachers can conduct short book review sessions after reading to build comprehension.
Stage 5: Presentation of Final Solution
5. Presentation of Final Solution
Artefact: A sample reading logbook was created to show how students would record their reading activities
each week.
Service: The service involves the implementation of a school-wide reading hour every Friday, where all
students and teachers stop other activities to read books of their choice.
Product: A weekly reading schedule was drafted to help classes rotate through different genres and authors
to widen their exposure.
Stage 6: Evaluation and Recommendations
6. Evaluation and Recommendations
Relevance to Statement of Intent:
The final solution directly addresses my intention to improve reading habits by encouraging consistent
reading every week through a structured school-wide program.
Challenges Encountered:
- Some students found it difficult to choose books they liked due to limited options.
ZIMSEC SCHOOL BASED ENGLISH PROJECT
- Some teachers were resistant to giving up part of their lesson time.
- The school needs more diverse books to cater to different reading levels.
Recommendations:
- The school library should be restocked with modern and interesting books.
- Teachers should support the program and help motivate students.
- A reading ambassador can be chosen from each class to lead and encourage peers.
