Abstract
Mathematical Literacy was introduced as an alternative option to Mathematics in the Further Education and Training (FET) phase (Grades 10-12, learners generally aged 15-18) in South Africa in January 2006. As a new subject in the FET phase, and with aims that differ somewhat from the notion of mathematical literacy that figured within the Mathematical Literacy / Mathematics / Mathematical Sciences (MLMMS) learning area in the General Education and Training (GET) phase, teachers are faced with implementing a subject which does not have established aims, understandings and practices associated with it.
Highlights
Mathematical Literacy was introduced as an alternative option to Mathematics in the Further Education and Training (FET) phase (Grades 1012, learners generally aged 15-18) in South Africa in January 2006
Mathematics education is replete with evidence suggesting that an emphasis on the rules, procedures and syntax is predominant in a range of countries (Schoenfeld, 1985), and has led to widespread concerns about learners’ ability to use and apply mathematics to make sense of situations (Smith, 2004; Steen, 2001)
Much of the South African literature related to debates around relevance suggests that linking mathematics with other agendas is problematic
Summary
Mathematical Literacy was introduced as an alternative option to Mathematics in the Further Education and Training (FET) phase (Grades 1012, learners generally aged 15-18) in South Africa in January 2006. In the analysis that follows the two excerpts, I provide evidence, from teachers’ comments and from other classroom observations, to argue that these excerpts are better interpreted as ‘near misses’ rather than ‘incommensurability’ in terms of integrating the mathematical and literacy-based agendas, and that the contrasts of foreground reflect differing understandings about what Mathematical Literacy is about.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
