Should your child stick with 'pure Maths' or switch to 'Maths Literacy'?

As year-end results arrive, many high schoolers must decide whether to continue with Pure Maths or switch to Maths Literacy.

Experts suggest Pure Maths can open more study options, while Maths Lit may boost marks and help secure a Bachelor’s pass.

Dr Alucia Mabunda of IIE Rosebank College says the first myth to dispel is that Pure Maths is only for the gifted. With good teaching and support, most learners can succeed, she says.

"It's a matter of investing time and a teacher making time to make sure a student is taught using methodologies that align with the type of learner."

While it is true that Pure Maths can offer broader career pathways, Mabunda says the choice should start with honest conversations about a child’s interests, ideally from primary school.

"The foundation is important. How is Maths, as a subject, being introduced, and also what role are parents at home playing in terms of engagement and advising them?"

Unfortunately, adds Mabunda, some adults were discouraged from pursuing Mathematics while at school, having been told that it was too difficult.

Such stereotypes have fostered a culture of fear, which continues to influence students negatively, she says.

So, which students ought to pursue Maths Lit versus Pure Maths?

"At the end of the day, it all depends on how much time you are willing to invest in the subject," says Mabunda, although she admits some careers may be better suited to those who have chosen to pursue Maths Literacy. Many degrees now accept Maths Lit, including Education, Law, Commerce, Tourism and Humanities.

"Maths Lit is very useful, and at the end of the day, it starts with engagement on where you are headed as a learner in terms of your future career prospects, what you want to become."

She adds that certain degrees, including Engineering, Medicine and Actuarial Science, require Pure Maths.

To listen to Mabunda in conversation with CapeTalk's Clarence Ford, click below: