THE Department of Basic Education says it has no intentions of making mathematics optional for learners. The department on Thursday dismissed media reports suggesting that the basic education sector intends to make mathematics optional.
The department said it continues to recognise the role that mathematics plays and will continue to play in the development of the nation.
“Mathematics is compulsory from Grade 1 to 9 in the South African schooling system. From Grade 10, learners have an option of three forms of mathematics, including mathematics (as we know it); mathematical literacy (for learners who do not intend pursuing post schooling careers that will require mathematics as part of the admission requirements), and technical mathematics (for learners who intend pursuing technology related careers).”
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The department said it does not intend to change its position on Mathematics now or in the near future.
“We have made great strides as a nation in improving learner performance in Mathematics, and this is demonstrated by the recent improved performance of our learners in national, regional and international assessments, as reflected in the National Senior Certificate, the Southern and Eastern African Consortium for Monitoring Educational Quality (SACMEQ) and Trends in International Mathematics and Science Study (TIMMS) respectively.”
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