Reading Challenges in English : Towards a Reading Model for Grade 8 Learners in Mafikeng District, North West Province, South Africa

South African learners experience serious reading problems. Findings by PIRLS conducted in (2006) where 40 countries participated, revealed shocking statistics about the state of reading among grade 4 learners in South Africa (Hugo, 2010:133). The main objective of this study is to establish reading challenges experienced by Grade 8 learners and to provide a reading model that could be used to remedy them. The researched method used to accomplish the set objectives is a mixed method, namely qualitative and quantitative. The qualitative method involves classroom observation, and reading texts for learners whereas the quantitative involved a questionnaire for teachers. Through the qualitative approach, learners will be exposed to a number of reading tasks which were followed by a shot test, testing, speed, word recognition, vocabulary/meaning words as used in those text and comprehension.