Mathematical Literacy Developing Identities of Inclusion [Paperback]

Why do so many learners, even those who are successful, feel that they are outsiders in the world of mathematics? Taking the central importance of language in the development of mathematical understanding as its starting point, Mathematical Literacyexplores students experiences of doing mathematics from primary school to university - what they think mathematics is, how it is presented to them, and what they feel about it. Building on a range of theory which focuses on community, knowledge, and identity, the author examines two particular issues: the relationship between language, learning, and mathematical knowledge, and the relationship between identity, equity, and processes of exclusion/inclusion.

In this comprehensive and accessible book, the author extends our understanding of the process of gaining mathematical fluency, and provides tools for an exploration of mathematics learning across different groups in different social contexts. Mathematical Literacysanalysis of how learners develop particular relationships with the subject, and what we might do to promote equity through the development of positive relationships, is of interest across all sectors of educationto researchers, teacher educators, and university educators.

Preface

Acknowledgements

Part I: Inclusion and Exclusion

Chapter 1: Formulating the Problem: Identifying Mathematical Literacy

Chapter 2: Experiencing Mathematics: Building Classroom Cultures and Mathematics Histories

Chapter 3: Mathematical Moments and Mathematical Lives: Doing Mathematics at Northdown School

Chapter 4: Moving On and Moving Up? Entering the World of the Undergraduate Mathematics Student

Chapter 5: Doing Undergraduate Mathematics: Questions of Knowledge and Authority

Chapter 6: Creating Spaces: Identity and CommunilƒV