Plain English Definitions for the Numeracy Progressions

Num Progs

In my reductionist quest to make things in education more accessible, I’ve started revising the definitions we use.

The reason for this is that they get in the way a lot of the time. And this is because they are too hard to understand. Or not explained well. Or used as a kind of mental battering ram.

I’ve already had a go at plain-English definitions for the literacy progressions. So this post is part 2 on the numeracy progressions. Part 1 on the literacy definitions is here if you missed it.

So… here’s a list of the numeracy progressions below, with my plain English explanations. As before, if this is something that you’re involved with using, either as a tutor or manager, I’d like some feedback.

I want to know if these make sense. I’ve tried to use a limited vocabulary, active voice, and no adverbs.

Some of this is just the language of maths and we have to use it. But I also want to cut anything that’s not needed.

Have I missed anything? If yes, how can I add critical aspects of meaning to these without making it sound like rocket science?

The audience is trades and vocational tutors who are non-experts in literacy and numeracy.

Here you go… Please direct any feedback to the comment section. Thanks…!

Additive Strategies Using + and – to solve problems
Multiplicative Strategies Using x and ÷ to solve problems
Proportional Reasoning Using fractions, decimals, %, proportions, ratios, rates to solve problems
Number Sequence Knowing the sequence of numbers forwards and backwards. Includes integers, fractions, decimals, %
Place Value Knowing the place and value of numbers. Includes tens, hundreds, thousands, fractions and decimals adding up to 1. Ordering and converting between fractions, decimals, %.
Number Facts Knowing +, -, x and ÷ facts from memory. Also knowing fraction, decimal, and % facts.
Preparing Data Sorting, organising, and representing data for analysis.
Analysing Data Describing and comparing data for interpretation.
Interpreting Data Interpreting and discussing data to predict and conclude
Probability Knowing about chance, likelihood, and possible outcomes.
Shapes and Transformations Describing and working with shapes. Includes shapes of two or three dimensions.
Location Working with  movement, distance, direction, bearings, grid references, maps, scales.
Measurement Comparing, ordering and measuring things. Includes using the right tools, systems, formulas, estimates and conversions.

Author: Graeme Smith

Education, technology, design. Also making cool stuff...

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