"Numeracy is the ability, willingness, and perseverance to interpret and apply mathematical understanding to solve problems in contextualized situations, and to analyze and communicate these solutions in ways relevant to the given context.”
Graduation Numeracy Assessment Design Specifications
“Numeracy is the ability to understand and apply mathematical concepts, processes and skills to solve problems in a variety of contexts.”
Mathematics is the study of number, shape, space and pattern and other related topics. Pure mathematics involves formal and abstract representations of ideas.
Numeracy is the interpretation or application of mathematical ideas to solve problems and understand a range of contexts and disciplines. Being numerate goes beyond working with numbers but encompasses the vast range of mathematical ideas and competencies that can be used to understand the world around us.
Numeracy is not mathematics. It is something different. Instead of diving deeper into the formal and abstract world of mathematics, learning more mathematics, and become more fluent with mathematics, numeracy fosters the understanding and application of our mathematical knowledge in a quantitative sense. Unlike the field of mathematics, which continues to expand, the mathematics needed by a numerate individual is relatively finite. That is, numeracy isn’t about being able to flexibly use all of mathematics to deal with “life’s diverse contexts and situations”, but rather to flexibly draw on that subset of mathematics that is most useful in dealing with these “diverse contexts and situations.” (Liljedahl & Liu, 2013, p. 35)
Liljedahll, P. & Liu, M. (2013). Numeracy. Vector 54(2), 34-39.
Inspired by the research-based balanced literacy framework, we have drawn parallels to what a balanced numeracy approach could be. This comparison chart is our collective brainstorming, and is by no means exhaustive.
Drawing upon the research base for balanced literacy programs and the results from BC's Changing Results for Young Readers project, our goal is to develop a framework to heighten awareness of balanced numeracy programs in our province.
Our Balanced Numeracy Project includes:
a framework that clearly illustrates the necessary components of balanced numeracy in the classroom
an electronic resource accessible to educators throughout BC
alignment with the BC Redesigned Curriculum for Kindergarten to Grade 12
a “living resource” with examples of numeracy routines, structures, activities and inquiries contributed by educators at various levels and in many BC contexts
support for professional learning that develops increased confidence, understanding, and joy in mathematics education
all of the resources on this site reflect our own experiences in BC classrooms
Presentation by Sandra Ball on strategies for creating a balanced numeracy program in primary & intermediate classrooms.
Resources and considerations to consider when setting up a balanced numeracy program in primary classrooms.
Presentation by Jen Barker on developing a balanced numeracy program in classrooms grades 4-7.
Presentation by Jen Barker on developing a balanced numeracy program in classrooms grades K-3.