Importance of Numeracy

Sun.Star Pampanga

1 Mar 2016

MARIBEL P. PANGAN

Numeracy is the combination of mathematical knowledge, problem solving and

communication skills required by all persons to function successfully within our
technological world. Numeracy is more than knowing about numbers and number
operations. Numeracy is an important foundation of learning in school. This foundation
is also important for people to function successfully as adults in today s world. Whether
we are aware of it or not, we use our numeracy skills everyday at work, at home, and at
leisure.
Numerate students can deal with numbers and measures confidently and
competently. They can compute on paper, in their heads, and by using technology. They
can estimate and solve problems in various situations.
Numeracy is an alternative to mathematics. It is an equal and supporting partner in
helping students learn to cope with the quantitative demands of modem society. Like
writing, numeracy must permeate the curriculum. When it does, it will enhance the
students understanding of all subjects and develop their capacity to lead informed lives.
Project ALL NUMERATES
This is a program of the Department of Education( Dep Ed) which aims to make
every Filipino a numerate. DepEd Region III, with the joint efforts of different primary
and secondary schools are implementing zero non-numerates in their respective schools
by using different strategic intervention materials assuring that there will be zero nonnumerates before the end of the school year. The project begins with the administration
of a pretest on the second month of the school year. The results are analyzed and various
strategies are used to fix the least mastered skills. Post-test is administered during
February to determine the outcome of the interventions. If there are still non-numerates
after the post pest, the teachers conduct innovative techniques to eradicate nonnumerates.
Project ALL NUMERATES needs the school leader together with effective
coordination and teacher professional development to ensure that appropriate policies
and resources are provided to support effective teaching and assessment of learning.
Support for non-nu merate students is essential in ensuring that all teachers see
themselves as making a contribution to children s numeracy. Parents likewise need to
be involved. All these areas call for a whole-school commitment and cannot be left to a
few teachers. For students to become numerates, they must be given opportunities to
practice and apply the mathematics they have learned. This should take place, not only
in the mathematics classroom, but in other areas of the curriculum. The author is
Teacher III at Nicanor David Vergara High School, Anao, Mexico, Pampanga