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Don’t Let Mathematical Literacy Count Against Your Child

When it comes to choosing your school subjects, the reality is many learners and perhaps parents do not understand the importance of the choice or the difference between mathematical literacy and mathematics.

But pick the wrong one and the consequences for your child’s future can be disastrous.

Matsoso Tsoaeli, from the South African Institute of Chartered Accountants (SAICA), said that studies show that it is better for you to get 40 per cent in mathematics than it is to get 100 per cent in mathematical literacy.

“This is because it is harder to get into university if you take mathematical literacy. You need an A or level 7 code to enter most universities with mathematical literacy and even then your career choices will be severely limited as many career paths do not allow maths literacy learners to follow them.”

What is the difference?

Mathematics deals with theories and concepts and problems not necessarily encountered in everyday life (think trigonometry, algebra and basic calculus). In contrast to this, mathematical literacy deals with common practical problems like budgeting, interest calculations etc.

To the practical parent or learner looking at the above over-simplified definition, mathematical literacy may be a tempting choice. Surprisingly, however, the more “practical” subject is the least useful to a learner’s future. This is because, at its heart, mathematics teaches a level of problem-solving that learners who do not take this subject are not exposed to. For this reason, and many others, once you choose to take maths literacy over mathematics, you cannot change subjects. This means that if your child is looking to pursue a university degree leading to careers in the fields of accounting, medicine, engineering, physics, chemistry, IT and more, by not choosing mathematics, your child will be immediately excluded from such qualifications and the career opportunities they provide.

How to guide your child in the very important decision of subject choice

  • Take the time to ensure your child is aware of the importance of the decision and its future consequences.

  • Listen to teachers’ recommendations but realise that the ultimate decision is yours and your child’s. If a teacher suggests maths literacy, question their logic and motives.

  • Explain to your child the benefits of taking the more challenging subject. This is particularly relevant to learners who find mathematics difficult. Focus their attention on the obvious benefits of mathematics as a subject choice. Let them know that while mathematics is hard, it is doable.

“All it takes to succeed is patience. Studies show that what makes people good at mathematics is the amount of time and energy they take in practicing getting it right.”

Making increasingly important decisions is part of growing up. Life is a game in which the stakes are real. Making our children aware of this is our responsibility as parents. The process of choosing matric subjects provides an opportunity for parental guidance where it matters most.

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