Factors Influencing English Reading Competencies Of Grade 4 Learners in the Libode- Mega District of the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa

Reading has become the national and international centre of debate as learners persistently read below the required levels and matriculation results are due to learners’ poor reading competencies. The concerns about poor reading competencies has mounted into inflammatory statements in articles and popular media nationally, continentally and internationally. Without the ability to read learners are deprived access to pertinent information and knowledge that can assist individuals in lifelong learning. Being a language teacher, the researcher in this study strongly believe that every learner can read appropriately and teachers can assist learners to improve their reading competencies. The purpose of the study wasto identify the factors contributing to poor reading competencies of grade 4 learners and to provide recommendations to assist in dealing with poor reading competencies. Qualitative research approach was undertaken to deal with all aspects related to research methodology.The data were collected using research instruments such as observation of six learners from three selected primaryschools. The observation was conducted during readingof textby learners in the presence of English teachers. The questionnaires were distributed to eleven teachers offering English in grade 4 as another means of data collection instrument.Major findings of the study revealed that factors affecting reading competencies are hugely emanated from schools, teachers, family background, departmental policy and learners themselves. Despite reading problems exist in schools, there are always positive solutions to bring hope and success to the learner