Using Non-Text Book Materials in Primary 1 And 2 A Module for Teachers

Abstract

1 What are non-textbook materials? They are materials for teaching and learning other than textbooks. They may include flashcards, workcards, wall charts, handwriting books, and class readers. There are also abacuses, slates and jigsaw puzzles. These materials are intended to cover all curriculum subjects. 2 We've got Pupil's Books (PBs) for P1 and P2. Why do we need non-textbook materials? The non-textbook materials help learners to get used to books. They supplement the existing textbooks. Although many schools have developed their own non-book materials, not all schools have been able to do this. These new non-textbook materials will be used all over Uganda and will give all learners the chance to learn actively with attractive materials. 3 How do the non-book materials help learners to learn? There is a Chinese saying: "I hear and I forget. I see and I remember. I do and I understand." In other words, active learning is the most effective learning. The non-book materials support active learning. They encourage learners to use all their senses - hearing, sight, touch, etc. The topics covered in these materials reflect learners' experience. They encourage informal learning through pair work and group work. They involve learners in a variety of useful activities such as drawing, role play, miming, and modelling. 4 How do the non-textbook materials fit in with the Pupil's Books? The non-book materials are designed to work hand-in-hand with the Pupil's Books and are closely linked to the curriculum. They can be used flexibly - that is, sometimes they may be used to introduce a topic, and at other times used to consolidate work that has already been presented. The non-book materials are cross-curricular: they provide links between the different subjects in the curriculum. 5 The non-book materials include all kinds of flash cards, wall charts, work cards and so on. How can I make sure they remain in good condition? The non-book materials are expensive and valuable teaching aids. They should be looked after with the greatest care. Learners should be taught good handling practice. It's a good idea to agree with your learners some rules for handling the non-textbook materials and display these rules in your classroom. Check the condition of the materials on a regular basis. If you see that materials have been damaged, make sure they are repaired without delay. Get the learners to help with this. 6 What should I do about storing the non-textbook materials? You should label the materials clearly and store them safely, but they should always be easily accessible when you need them. It is also important that key stakeholders in the local community, e.g. parents, SMCs, councillors, are sensitised to the importance of caring for the materials. Note: You can find good advice on handling and storing the non-book materials in the manual "Instructional Materials: Management and Use" (MOES, 1996). 7 Most of the non-textbook materials are accompanied by teacher's notes. Why do we need this Module to help us use the material? The teacher's notes provide general guidance on the use of the non-textbook materials. This Module provides additional help and more detailed advice on using the non-book materials in a variety of teaching situations. 8 What happens if my class size increases or if I find that I need extra materials for children with special needs? You can make your own non-textbook materials based on the materials you've been supplied with. We give you suggestions for doing this in the individual units in this Module. Get the learners involved in producing these materials. They will respond better to materials that they have helped to make.