Why literary texts are still vital in the Kenyan education system
Strategies like only analysing episodes in set books as opposed to the traditional analysis of: plot, setting, characters, themes and stylistic devices is now the norm.
The move to integrate English and literature, in my opinion, was not informed by research and its implementation was haphazardly done.
With integration, literature shifted from being fully tested in paper 3 to papers 2 and 3.
On March 13, 2021, Mr Ashford Gikunda wrote an article titled, “Re-evaluate the place and value of set books in the curriculum” in which he castigated and lampooned the value and role of literary set books in secondary schools.
He argued that set books in high school are an unnecessary baggage and a waste of time. That they: add no value to our lives, deprive us of creativity and originality, and are just for entertainment and passing time.
