Welcome to the first numeracy article for 2025.
Our aim is to demonstrate that numeracy is not just about what happens at MWSC in maths classes but that numeracy is everywhere. Numeracy goes beyond just addition and subtraction. It’s about applying maths concepts to solve problems and make sense of the world around us. Through this and later articles, we hope to provide families with some conversation starters around numeracy.
Subject Spotlight – Music
Did you know that numeracy plays an important role in music? Students are required to use the key skills of fractions, counting, addition and subtractions across theory, aural and playing a musical instrument. To illustrate these connections, ‘Numeracy in Music’ posters are displayed across all music areas at the college. These posters outline the essential numeracy skills required for musical success.
Incorporating Numeracy and Literacy
“Big Book of Numbers” by Adam Spencer
Written by Australian radio presenter, comedian and mathematician Adam Spencer, this book takes readers on an entertaining and educational journey through the realm of mathematics, humor, and learning.
Numeracy while Travelling
Many families will be planning what they will be doing during these holidays. Plan your route as a family and estimate the travel time. Someone in the car could time how long it takes to drive between landmarks. When you pass a speed sign, your child could calculate the distance you will go if you travel for 1 hour (or 30 minutes or 4 hours) at this speed. As a family, you could also try estimating the distance of your trip and have your child compare it to the actual kilometres on the odometer.
For families with petrol or diesel cars, you could discuss petrol prices and estimate the cost of petrol for your trip. Let your child help you calculate the total cost based on the distance and fuel efficiency of your car.
For families with an electric vehicle, together you could explore apps that calculate charging stops based on battery range and plan your route accordingly.
Together you could set a budget for the trip, including activities, meals, and souvenirs. Involve your child in planning how to spend the money wisely. Spreadsheets like Excel or Google Sheets can help keep track of this. Your child could track expenses and calculate how much is left in the budget throughout the break.
Numeracy at Home
At home, board games are a great way to talk about numeracy. Revisit your classic board or card games as many involve counting, adding, and following game rules. Or find a newer board game that involves the concept of engine-building that encourages strategic thinking, planning and logical reasoning. Engine-building board games create systems you add to with each turn and become more powerful as the game progresses.
Including numeracy in holiday conversations, you’re helping your child develop a positive association with maths and demonstrate that numeracy knowledge is a key skill they will need for the future.
Happy Holidays!
Mrs Tijtje Keatley and Ms Cassie Morris
Learning Specialists