Calls to scrap Maths Literacy questioned

The debate over whether Mathematical Literacy (Maths Lit) should be scrapped as a subject in South African schools is intensifying, as some argue it limits learners’ potential.

Critics believe all pupils are capable of studying Pure Mathematics and that offering Maths Lit undermines future opportunities.

However, education expert Professor Mary Metcalfe disagrees, warning that removing Maths Lit could leave many learners without any maths education at all.

“I certainly agree that all of our children are capable, but the critique that is brought doesn't understand several critical things."

“Before we introduced the option of learners either doing Maths or Maths Literacy, it meant that learners who chose not to do Maths had no option of carrying on with any Maths at all. So that would mean that the large number of children could leave school with their National Senior Certificate and not have any Maths at all. I think that would be a loss for citizens."

“I think that people in South Africa haven't necessarily had the opportunity to understand the value of Maths Literacy. The use of the word literacy, I think, is misunderstood by people because literacy has a sense of early learning. Maths Literacy is much more sophisticated than people think."

Metcalfe added that the real issue lies in weak foundational teaching in earlier grades, which pushes learners toward Maths Literacy later on.

She argued that improving early Maths education and increasing qualified teachers would be more effective than scrapping the subject, particularly in addressing inequalities between wealthier and poorer schools.

“I do agree that all children can learn Maths, but I don't think we should be scrapping Maths Literacy. I do think that what we should rather be doing is strengthening the conditions under which all children master Maths in the early years of schooling and progressively throughout."

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Maths Lit is a practical school subject that helps learners use Maths in everyday situations, such as budgeting, measurements, maps, and interpreting data like bank statements, tax, and interest.

Unlike Pure Mathematics, which focuses on algebra and calculus, it is aimed at applying basic numerical understanding to real-life problems.

To listen to Metcalfe in conversation with 702 and CapeTalk's Africa Melane, use the audio player below: