Blog Post

Mathematics Literacy: What You Need to Know!

ADvTECH Group • May 6, 2022

As a parent, you may think ‘Maths Lit’ is the equivalent of Standard Grade maths from back in the day when you were at school. However, the truth is that Maths Lit is not Standard Grade maths – in fact it’s very different. Here’s what you need to know.

A poster that says maths literacy all you need to know

What is Mathematics Literacy/Maths Literacy?


As a subject, Mathematics Literacy focuses on calculating budgets and investments, interpreting statistics, working out loan prepayments and interest, as well as calculating income tax, and other commonplace matters that relate to figures. It’s more of an everyday type of maths that teaches you how to tackle the practical real-world problems that come up in life.


How is it different from Pure Mathematics?


In Pure Mathematics, learners deal with theories and concepts that aren’t necessarily experienced in everyday life. This subject focuses on things like algebra, trigonometry, and basic calculus. It’s the type of mathematics that studies numbers and shapes, and the relationships between them. The basis of the subject is to teach learners to think critically when problem-solving and uses a lot of abstract thinking.


Tertiary education and career options with Mathematics Literacy


No matter how you look at it, maths can be a very difficult subject – both Mathematics Literacy and Pure Mathematics require hard work and dedication. And while it may seem too early for your child to decide exactly what they want to do with the rest of their lives, the subject choices they make now could affect the opportunities they have in the future.

Universities, colleges, and other tertiary education institutions have certain Mathematics requirements for the courses and qualifications. It’s a good idea to investigate this as you help your child make the choice between Mathematics Literacy and Pure Maths.


Career & tertiary options that require Pure Maths:


When it comes to pursuing a future in STEM-related fields, Pure Maths is a minimum requirement for acceptance into university courses. The kinds of careers these include are:


  • Medicine
  • Engineering
  • Economics and analytics
  • Genetics
  • Accounting
  • Physics
  • IT


Career & tertiary options that require Maths Literacy:


If your child is more artistically or linguistically inclined, Mathematics Literacy could be the way to go. For further studies and qualifications in the arts and social sciences, Mathematics Literacy is a minimum requirement. The kinds of careers these include are:


  • Advertising and marketing
  • TV, radio and film
  • Teaching and academia
  • Politics and advocacy
  • Writing and publishing
  • Law


How to choose between Pure Maths and Maths Literacy?


Choosing subjects can feel like a weighty dilemma, so it’s always best to do your research and make an informed decision. Spend some time with your child researching different career fields, the minimum study requirements for these, and the real-world jobs that they could lead to. There are a few local career guidance questionnaires that can be found with an online search that can help you figure it out. If you need to, seek career guidance from a professional or psychologist.


And over and above the career consideration, you need to consider the well-being of your child. If your child is battling with Pure Maths, and getting bad grades, this can affect their overall point score in matric, not to mention their confidence. Children that are doing well in Maths Lit may not pursue the STEM careers they hoped for, but they will get better points for university exemption and may just be happier children overall.


Conclusion:


At the end of the day, the decision is guided heavily by who your child is and what they want to do, so take the time to learn all the facts.


At Crawford International, we promise to deliver academic excellence. Our four academic pillars demonstrate our commitment to provide a dynamic, personalised learning journey for each student.


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March 28, 2025
ALUMNI SPOTLIGHT: DYLAN BIZJAK Crawford International Sandton From the classrooms of Crawford International Sandton to the forefront of aeronautical engineering in the Netherlands, Dylan Bizjak’s journey is one of ambition, resilience and innovation . Pursuing a Passion for Engineering After matriculating in 2019, Dylan initially pursued Aeronautical Engineering at Wits University. However, six months into his studies, a new opportunity emerged, one that would take him beyond South Africa’s borders. He secured a place at Inholland University of Applied Sciences in Delft, Netherlands, where he embraced the challenge of international study, even navigating his first year remotely due to the pandemic. Now a graduate with a BSc in Aeronautical Engineering (2024), Dylan has stepped into the professional world, joining Eve Reverse, a pioneering start-up dedicated to climate-positive innovation. What began as an internship in his final year evolved into a full-time role as a Research and Development Engineer, where he contributes to the creation of sustainable, carbon-negative materials. His proudest achievement? Playing a key role in the development of the Eve Dry Tile, an innovative flax fibre material designed to reduce emissions and waste in manufacturing. Achievements at Crawford International Sandton Gareth Beach Award (2019) – Recognised for bravery, dedication, self-development and outstanding achievement in swimming. Sportsman of the Year (2019) – Acknowledged for excellence in swimming, basketball and boxing.  Reflections on Crawford Dylan credits his time at Crawford for preparing him for both academic and personal success on the global stage. “Crawford’s approach equips you for university and beyond, whether in South Africa or internationally. It’s not just about academics but about becoming a well-rounded critical thinker and team player. Exposure to diverse cultures, teamwork, individuality and taking responsibility for my outcomes were invaluable lessons I carried with me.” Words of Wisdom To his younger self, Dylan would say: “Step out of your comfort zone sooner. Growth happens when you challenge yourself. Leaving home was tough, but the personal and professional growth was worth every stumble along the way.” Dylan’s story is a testament to courage, hard work and the power of embracing the unknown. From South Africa to the Netherlands, he is proving that the sky isn’t the limit, it is just the beginning.
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