HPEDSB

Literacy is about more than reading or writing – it is about how we communicate in society. It is about social practices and relationships, about knowledge, language and culture.Those who use literacy take it for granted – but those who cannot use it are excluded from much communication in today’s world. Indeed, it is the excluded who can best appreciate the notion of “literacy as freedom”.UNESCO, Statement for the United Nations Literacy Decade, 2003–2012

Mathematical literacy is an individual’s capacity to identify and understand the role that mathematics plays in the world, to make well-founded judgments, and to engage in mathematics in ways that meet the needs of that individual’s current and future life as a constructive, concerned and reflective citizen. (Mathematics for Literacy – De Lang, J. 2001)

Focusing our Thinking about Literacy and Numeracy…

What is the difference between numeracy and mathematics?

Numeracy is the effective use of mathematics to meet the general demands of life at home, in paid work, and for participation in community and civic life. (State of Victoria Department of Education and Early Childhood Development (2009). Numeracy in Practice: Teaching, learning, and using mathematics)

Supporting Numeracy – Capacity Building Series K-12

Read sections, ‘Building a Community of Practice K-12’ and ‘About Numeracy and Mathematics’.

Discuss with your table group, the difference between numeracy and mathematics. Using the paper and markers provided, illustrate the groups’ thinking.

The Learning Environment for Today’s Mathematics and Literacy Learner

Compare the ‘Mathematical Processes’ to ‘The Four Roles of the Literate Learner’ by drawing connecting lines between like concepts.

Some Considerations for Program Planning…

1. Browse through the ‘Some Considerations for Program Planning’ of the curriculum document. 2. Find reference to Numeracy and/or Literacy in the section subtitles. Read these sections of the document. 3. Share your findings with your table group. 4. Refer to the ‘Next Steps’ column in the KWL chart. Identify how we might recognize and develop numeracy applications across subject areas.

“…every student should be equipped with the mathematical knowledge, skills and habits of mind that are essential for successful and rewarding participation in society.”– The Mathematics Working Group, Ontario Ministry of Education

A document to spark conversation and to guide in planning…