Assessing the readability of social studies textbooks for the Junior High schools in Ghana

Abstract

This study was designed to assess the readability level of Ghana Education Service (GES) approved Social Studies textbooks that are currently in use in Junior High Schools (JHS) in Ghana. The sample of the study consisted of the GES approved Social Studies textbooks for JHS 1-3 currently in use. Thirty different texts (ten from each textbook) were randomly selected for the readability test. The instrument used for data collection was textbook readability test. The data were analysed using free online readability test. The results of the findings showed that the GES approved Social Studies textbooks were difficult, compared to their grade level. The study recommended that Social Studies textbooks should be assessed to see their readability level before they are given to students. This is necessary because readable textbooks motivate students to read and learn better.