Linking Reading and Numeracy Using Mathematics-Based Reading Materials for Grade 7

Abstract

INTRODUCTION

Reading and numeracy are two important skills that every student needs to possess. These skills are closely related as an understanding of mathematical concepts often pre-requires reading ability and comprehension. Hence, reading skills need to be addressed vis a vis the numeracy skill. However, this task is often a demanding challenge considering issues like access to readily available reading remediation materials and teachers' readiness to teach the skill. It is along with this setup that this Basic Education Research Fund (BERF)-funded research was implemented to develop both the reading and numeracy skills of learners through a remediation project that utilize teacher-made Mathematics-based reading materials.

METHODS

This research employed the descriptive method of research in determining the improvement in the reading and numeracy performance level of Grade 7 Unity students of Palsong National High School in Camarines Sur. The performance level of the respondents before and after the intervention was determined using assessment tools in the form of oral and written tests.

RESULTS

Ability to read does not necessarily amount to comprehension. When students could not read, their understanding is also at stake. Improvement in the reading and numeracy skills of students was affected by students' absenteeism and their attitude towards reading. There were manifestations of inhibitions among students when asked to perform specific activities which may be due to their age. Both the reading and numeracy teachers only resort to teacher-made and/or teacher-identified materials as standardized reading and numeracy materials are often expensive and unavailable. The Mathematics-based reading materials developed were all rated as highly acceptable by the Mathematics teachers, reading teachers, and students and were found to have improved students' reading and numeracy performance.

DISCUSSIONS

Comprehension requires reading ability. In ensuring that students better understand the various concepts and problems in Mathematics, they should possess the required reading skill. Improving students' reading skill using reading materials that introduce mathematical concepts ensures a strong link between the two interrelated skills. Hence, Mathematics-based reading materials that satisfy both the reading and numeracy competencies may be developed to provide teachers and students with readily available materials in reading and numeracy.