Maths forum meet to discuss new curriculum

Goals and challenges facing maths teachers and lecturers in the light of the new national senior certificate mathematics curriculum were key issues at the meeting of the UCT Schools Mathematics Forum on 15 November.

Members of the Western Cape Education Department, the Schools Development Unit, and academics attended the event.

Concerns were raised about the lack of alignment for geometry, the perception that algebra has been watered down, and an insufficient grasp of trigonometry in some schools. On the other hand, teachers said they had not been given enough guidance to interpret the new curriculum and learners don't have enough time to practice it.

There was also concern raised that the new curriculum relies on language and therefore a good grasp of the medium of instruction was need.

It was agreed that a forum that connects schools to UCT was needed, and the provincial Education Department said it was open to engagement on curriculum revision. A follow-up meeting is scheduled for February/March.