At post-primary level the targets set out in the Literacy and Numeracy for Learning and Life: The National Strategy to Improve Literacy and Numeracy among Children and Young People 2011- 2020 seek to promote greater awareness of and more positive attitudes towards Mathematics.

Specifically, during the period from 2011 to 2020 the aim is to:

• Increase the percentage of students taking the Higher Level Mathematics examination at the end of Junior Cycle (i.e., Junior Certificate examination or its equivalent) to 60 per cent by 2020.
• Increase the percentage of students taking the Higher Level Mathematics examination in Leaving Certificate to 30 per cent by 2020.
  (DES, 2011 p.17)

The following is an overview of the services, supports and resources that assist teachers in implementing the national strategy.

PDST

With a view to supporting teachers in achieving this aim, the PDST have developed a two-day seminar pitched at Numeracy Link teachers. Teachers are equipped with resources and strategies with regard to how to coordinate numeracy programmes within their schools.

• Numeracy Link Teacher - Seminar Day 1
• Numeracy Link Teacher - Seminar Day 2
• Adopting a common approach
• The importance of mathematical language
• Problem solving
• Maths Competency tests
• School Self Evaluation Tools
• Cross Curricular Numeracy Charts

In addition to this, Project Maths, which was implemented on a phased basis from September 2010 by the NCCA, continues to restructure and re-energise the teaching of Mathematics by placing greater emphasis on student understanding of mathematical concepts and relating them to everyday experiences.

The JCSP, LCAP and LCVP also continue to implement initiatives to support the enhancement of numeracy within their schools.

Scoilnet

Scoilnet provides access to hundreds of engaging Maths resources which have been reviewed by Irish teachers. Use our new search function to find one that suits your needs.