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The comprehension of oral literature is very crucial as it is the literature that is readily available, that is at no cost most of the time. If used well, it can play a huge role in combating some of the issues of literacy. Due to oral tradition being part of many people’s cultures, it is one literature that can be relied upon in a country that has varied socio-economic issues. It is considered that oral literature is an important entry point to the meaning of verbal texts and that it plays an important role in exposing children to words. This article analyses selected Northern Sotho rhymes and folktales as forms of oral literature that can be utilised in addressing literacy challenges, demonstrating how teachers and learners can use rhymes and folktales as a teaching and learning resource. The article has demonstrated that some rhymes can teach children sequence of events, colours, different animals, cooperation, social skills and be a form of exercise. Folktales add on to their vocabulary and impart some moral skills.