Description
Mathematics is a language that makes use of symbols and notations for describing numerical, geometric and graphical relationships. It is a human activity that involves observing, representing, and investigating patterns and qualitative relationships in physical and social phenomena, as well as between mathematical objects themselves. It helps to developmental processes that enhance logical thinking, accuracy, and problem-solving. Mathematical problem solving enables us to understand the world (physical, social, and economic) around us, and, most of all, to teach us to think creatively.
There are five key elements of Mathematical Literacy:
- Mathematical Literacy involves the use of elementary mathematical content. The mathematical content of Mathematical Literacy is limited to those elementary mathematical concepts that are relevant to making sense of numerically based scenarios faced in the everyday lives of individuals. In general, the focus is not on abstract mathematical concepts.
- Mathematical Literacy involves authentic real-life contexts. In exploring and solving real-world problems, it is essential that the contexts learners are exposed to in this subject are authentic (i.e. are drawn from genuine and realistic situations) and relevant. Wherever possible, learners must be able to work with actual real-life problems and resources, rather than with problems developed around constructed, semi-real, contrived, and fictitious scenarios.
- Mathematical Literacy involves solving familiar and unfamiliar problems. It is unrealistic to expect that in the teaching of Mathematical Literacy, learners will always be exposed to contexts that are specifically relevant to their lives. Rather, the purpose of this subject is to equip learners with the necessary knowledge and skills to be able to solve problems in any context that they may encounter in daily life.
- Mathematical Literacy involves decision making and communication. A mathematically literate individual is able to weigh up options by comparing solutions and making decisions regarding the most appropriate choice for a given set of conditions. In the teaching of Mathematical Literacy, teachers should provide learners with opportunities to develop and practise decision-making and communication skills.
- Mathematical Literacy involves the use of integrated content and skills in solving problems. Problems encountered in everyday contexts are never structured according to personal content topics. Rather, the solving of real-life problems commonly involves the use of content and skills drawn from a range of topics. Therefore, being able to solve problems based on real-life contexts requires the ability to identify and use a wide variety of techniques and skills integrated from across a range of content topics.
