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Literacy and Numeracy
Literacy and Numeracy Literacy
Traditionally, it is viewed as the ability to use
language - to read, write, listen and speak.
The ability to identify, understand, interpret,
create communicate and compute, using printed
and written materials associated with varying
contexts. (UNESCO, 1999)
Numeracy
• The ability to reason with numbers and other
mathematical concepts.
• To be numerically literate, a person has to be comfortable
with logic and reasoning.
• To be numerate is to have the ability and inclination
to use mathematics effectively at home, at work and in the
community.
• A proficiency which is developed mainly in mathematics,
but also in other subjects.
• It is more than an ability to do basic arithmetic.
• It involves developing confidence and competence
with numbers and measure.
Kinds and levels of literacy
• Initial literacy- Refers to the ability to write one’s
own name. It includes an awareness of the
learner that written symbols have message to
convey.
• Basic literacy- Refers to ability to read and write,
read and interpret short simple sentences on
everyday life.
• Survival literacy- Refers to the ability to read,
write and comprehend texts on familiar subjects
and to understand whatever signs, labels and
instructions and directions are necessary to
get along within one’s environment.
• Functional literacy- The possession of skills
perceived as necessary by particular persons or
groups to fulfill their own-self determined
objectives on a higher level.
Developing strong literacy and numeracy skills
is crucial for students to effectively teach and
support the learning of school children,
out-of-school youth, and other community
members.
Literacy Skills
• Emphasize the importance of reading aloud to children
every day, using expression and discussing the story
• Teach trainees how to engage children in retelling stories
in their own words to build comprehension
• Provide trainees with ideas for creating a literacy-rich
environment with access to a variety of books and writing
materials.
• Instruct trainees on teaching children to recognize and
write the letters of the alphabet, starting with the letters in
their name
• Encourage trainees to engage children in storytelling
and imaginative play to foster creativity and language
skills.
Numeracy Skills
• Demonstrate how to incorporate math concepts
into everyday activities and conversations with
children
• Teach trainees counting techniques, having
children touch each object as they count to build
one-to-one correspondence
• Provide hands-on learning opportunities with
blocks, puzzles, and other manipulatives that
trainees can use with children
• Encourage trainees to engage children in
comparing and ordering objects by size, length,
weight, etc. to develop math vocabulary.
• Instruct trainees on applying math skills in
practical situations like cooking and setting the
table.
What are the key components of an
effective literacy and numeracy
development program?
Key Components of an Effective Literacy
Program
• Phonemic Awareness: This involves the ability to hear,
identify, and manipulate individual sounds (phonemes) in
spoken words. It is foundational for developing reading
skills.
• Phonics: Teaching the relationship between letters and
sounds helps children decode words. Phonics instruction
is critical for improving reading fluency and
comprehension
• Vocabulary Development: A robust vocabulary
enhances comprehension and the ability to
express ideas. Programs should focus on teaching
high-frequency words and encouraging reading
from diverse sources.
• Fluency: This refers to the ability to read with
speed, accuracy, and proper expression. Fluency
is essential for comprehension, as it allows readers
to focus on meaning rather than decoding words.
• Fluency: This refers to the ability to read with speed,
accuracy, and proper expression. Fluency is essential for
comprehension, as it allows readers to focus on meaning
rather than decoding words.
• Comprehension: Teaching strategies to understand,
analyze, and interpret texts is vital. This includes
summarizing, questioning, and making connections to
enhance understanding.
• Writing: Writing reinforces reading skills and helps students
express their thoughts and ideas. It is interconnected with
reading, as writing about texts can deepen
comprehension
Key Components of an Effective
Numeracy Program
• Understanding Mathematical Concepts: Programs
should focus on helping students grasp key
concepts such as number sense, operations, and
relationships between numbers.
• Problem-Solving Skills: Encouraging logical
reasoning and the ability to approach and solve
various mathematical problems is crucial for
developing numeracy.
• Practical Application: Integrating mathematics
into real-life situations helps students see the
relevance of math in everyday life, fostering a
more profound understanding and retention of
concepts.
• Use of Manipulatives: Hands-on learning tools (like
blocks and counters) can help students visualize
and understand mathematical concepts better.
• Assessment and Feedback: Regular assessments,
such as formative assessments, help track student
progress and inform instruction. Providing timely
feedback is essential for improvement.
• Professional Development for Educators:
Continuous training and support for teachers
ensure they are equipped with effective
strategies for teaching literacy and numeracy
