The new Grade 4 to 6 science and technology curriculum will receive a boost with purpose-designed workbooks that combine both subjects into a comprehensive work book. The workbooks, a project spear-headed by the Sasol Inzalo Foundation (SaIF), will be distributed to public schools throughout South Africa.

The workbook material has been developed under Open Copyright license, allowing educators and learners to copy, print and distribute freely to promote easy access to quality educational material.

SaIF is a public benefit organisation that aims to pioneer reform in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) education systems. It develops and implements programmes and models, in partnership with key education stakeholders that can be replicated across the education system on all levels.

“We are very proud of this initiative. With our partners, the Department of Basic Education and Siyavula, these workbooks are a catalyst to enhancing science and technology education by enabling educators and learners with access to quality educational material,” said Mpho Letlape, Managing Director, Sasol Inzalo Foundation.

The workbooks were compiled through contribution from over 60 educators, subject specialists and academics from South Africa and abroad. Teacher manuals have also been developed and will be available in hard copy and electronically with the workbooks, and additional media content.

“Our objective is reform education in STEM subjects and we look at options that are relevant and accessible, regardless of location and socio-economic background. This includes using multimedia material that will captivate learners and aide their learning,” said Letlape.

The workbooks feature four cartoon characters, known as the “Thunderbolt Kids”, who guide learners through the workbooks. Each character uses a different analytical and thinking skill to explain different topics in way that learners can identify and engage. This approach develops critical thinking skills in learners at an early age. The material is available in both English and Afrikaans, whilst the web-based hyper-linked content is only available in English.

The material by educators and learners will be reviewed after extensive monitoring and evaluation of usage by educators and learners. This will inform further improvements made to the content to ensure that the workbooks continue to evolve, not only for the needs of both learners and teachers, but also with subsequent changes to the curriculum.  The workbooks can be accessed at www.sasolinzalofoundation.org.za