Why numeracy?
There are clear links between improved numeracy and increased success for individuals at work and at home. Many adults see the numeracy they can do as common sense, but anything they find difficult they regard as maths.
TOP TEN NUMERACY SKILLS NEEDED AT WORK
1 Arrive at work on time and plan the use of time effectively.
2 Write down sequences of numbers accurately.
3 Understand the importance of accuracy in number calculations.
4 Make calculations using addition, subtraction, multiplication and division.
5 Make necessary calculations of fractions, decimals and percentages.
6 Weigh and measure to required tolerances. 7 Use calculators. 8 Use estimating skills.
9 Make money calculations, including checking pay information accurately.
10 Calculate area and volume accurately.
KILLER FACTS FOR NUMERACY • A fifth of adults in England do not have the basic numeracy skills needed for everyday life.
• More than 6 in 10 of those in routine or semi-routine jobs have lower-level numeracy skills.
• Lower-level numeracy skills are associated with lower wages: on average, individuals with fair or poor (Entry 3 or lower) skills earn roughly £8,000 less than those with Level 2 numeracy or above.
• Individuals with Entry 3 numeracy are less than half as likely as those with Level 2 or above to earn more than £20,000 a year before tax.
• People who reach adulthood with poor skills are far less likely to receive work-related training, get a promotion or receive a raise.
• Approximately a third (35 per cent) of employers describe their skill levels as good.
• Around 40 per cent of employers are concerned about employees’ basic skills.
Carpentieri, J.D. and Litster, J. (2009) Adult numeracy: A review of research; DfES (2003) Skills for Life Survey; Bynner, J. and Parsons, S. (2006) New Light on Literacy and Numeracy; and CBI (2008) Making It All Add Up.
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