Meera Rampersad

Geography

812117712

Journal Task:
Write a journal entry that explains your understanding of numeracy before
and after the literacy-numeracy plenary presentation (be sure to highlight
any changes in or strengthening of your beliefs if any). Include also your
beliefs about how and why numeracy is the responsibility of all teachers and
how you can include it in your teaching being sure to discuss possible
challenges and how they might be overcome.
I used to think that literacy is only concerned with English, which is the art of language. So on
hearing the term coined as numerical literacy; I was puzzled. I guess I never stopped to give
thought to it, honestly. Personally, numeracy was associated to the ability of being able to count,
add, subtract and knowing how much change you get from $100 bill.
My personal philosophy places numeracy for a teacher as paramount importance. A teacher in all
their roles as form teacher, subject teacher, guide, disciplinarian among others utilizes this skill
of numeracy for roll call and tabulation of punctuality and regularity. Report books percentage
and ranking, marking of exam scripts and course work are also part of it. My background has
always been more scientific, as such simple mathematical calculations and especially those
associated with the role of a teacher have always come easily as a skill. I would often think that
these are simple tasks anyone with tertiary or even secondary education can perform. So, you can
imagine my amazement and disbelief that a fellow colleague could not find percentage easily or
rank properly. I then just brushed it aside as these teachers are majors of the arts and as such do
not utilize the arithmetic part of their brain.
The presentation highlighted some interesting views. For instance, I would think numeracy
would show numbers and the mathematical symbols associated to equations. Now I see it
includes the vernacular and these same attributes as words. Upon reflection, I now see where
students do have issues with reading mathematics. For instance, mathematical equations
phrased in English. I now see the importance in literacy especially in Mathematics. There is a
marrying effect between literacy and mathematics to obtain numeracy. Furthermore, my belief
was strengthened in this session as I think that anyone needs to be able to speak, read and
calculate to exist in the everyday world. So, everyone needs numeracy as they should be able
to apply the appropriate skills and knowledge in both familiar and unfamiliar settings. It is not
just about being able to get a mathematical; equation correct in school.
In my school, we have a thrust for literacy. My eyes are now opened as to how we as teachers
and as a body have overlooked numeracy as a skill needed by our children. It is a powerful tool
needed by everyone as a 21st century skill that can speak to critical problem solving. I have
always in my capacity as a Geography teacher tried to build numeracy within my students

Meera Rampersad

Geography

812117712

especially in Map Work. But, now I am going to suggest to my Administration that for the
upcoming new calendar year we should focus on both LITERACY and NUMERACY.