Suriname Fifth Grade Reading

The reading curriculum for fifth grade in Suriname is part of the GLO (Gewoon Lager Onderwijs) system. While specific details about the official curriculum are not readily available, several initiatives and resources shed light on reading instruction in the country.

Challenges and Initiatives

A key challenge facing the Surinamese education system is the insufficient level of reading proficiency among children. A UNICEF study revealed that less than half of children aged 7-14 possess foundational reading skills. This issue is being addressed through various initiatives, most notably the LEES-KRACHT program. Launched in March 2024 by UNICEF in collaboration with the University of Suriname and the Ministry of Education, this program aims to improve children's reading skills by training teachers in emergent literacy instruction and establishing learning networks. The program targets teachers from grades 2 and 3 in 30 primary schools, with the goal of reaching over 1,000 students.

Other initiatives focus on broader educational improvements, including enhancing English language skills and digital literacy. These efforts aim to equip students with the necessary skills for the job market and future opportunities.

Resources and Skills

While the Ministry of Education provides access to digital learning materials, including textbooks for various grade levels, these are not publicly accessible. However, several online resources offer reading comprehension materials related to Suriname, which can be incorporated into the curriculum. These resources often include passages about Surinamese culture, geography, and history, along with comprehension questions.

Fifth-grade reading typically focuses on developing comprehension skills, including identifying themes, summarizing content, considering different perspectives, and comparing and contrasting story elements. Students are expected to read grade-level texts with purpose and understanding, both silently and orally. They also work on using context to determine the meaning of unfamiliar words and phrases. The IAS Suriname website indicates that fifth-grade language arts classes emphasize applying English skills in writing, reading, and speaking.