Readability Level Assessment of Tigrinya Textbook , for Grade four Students
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Date
2004-06
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Addis Ababa Universiy
Abstract
The principal objective of this study was to assess the readability level of Tigrinya
textbook for grade four students. For doing so, the readability level of the textbook was
computed using the Fog Index readability formula. In order to assess the comprehension
level of the target students and the readability of the textbook, three cloze tests were
administered to Wofri Selam elementary school fourth grade students. In order to see the
possible effect of grade difference on the result, the tests were administered to third and
Fifth grade students. Interviews were also conducted with the students to gather their
opinions about the textbook's readability level. Finally, readability checklist was used to
gather Tigrinya teachers' opinions about the readability of the textbook.
The finding from the Fog Index readability formula indicated the textbook IS
appropriate for ninth grade students rather than for grade four students. The result of the
cloze tests also indicated that the comprehension level of the students (including fifth
grade students who took the tests) was at a 'frustration level'. This means that the students
couldn't comprehend the textbook even with the help of their teacher. The findings from
interviews revealed that the textbook readability level was beyond the learners' level. The
interviewees attributed this to presence of long and difficult words and sentences; lack of
proper text organization and layout. Finally, the checklist's result also showed that
teachers rated the textbook to have fair level of readability.
Considering all the findings, it is recommended that the textbook readability level
should be lowered to the appropriate level in the coming edition. This can be done by:* Presenting passages centered learners' background, experiential and
cultural knowledge.
* Supplying enough number of charts, pictures and lists.
* Rewriting the passages to make the organization more explicit and
relevant for the intended learners.
* Replacing difficult words and sentences by those already frequently
used and familiar to learners.
Replacing difficult words by relatively easier and frequently used ones and
avoiding irrelevant details, attempt was made by the present researcher to simplify the
first passage used in the study. Accordingly, the passages readability level was lowered to
fifth grade and the target students' comprehension level was raised to instructional level.
This means that the students can comprehend the text with the help of their teacher. So
the simplified passage is recommended as possible sample passage appropriate to the
intended grade.
F.inally it is also recommended that till the textbook readability level is improved,
Tigrinya language teachers should be informed about the readability level of the textbook
so that they will take their own measures in simplifying the textbook's contents. This can
be done by prepaling a sort of workshop or seminar for the local teachers .
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Readability Level Assessment of Tigrinya Textbook