ABC Everyday Numbers is a numeracy program based in Canada that offers free resources to adult learners looking to improve their math skills. Learners can download free workbooks, watch videos and take online courses on their own. The materials are geared for beginning to intermediate level ABE students.
ABC Everyday Numbers can also be used in the classroom. The workbooks are designed for teachers/tutors/practitioners who are teaching math skills and may not be trained foundational math instructors.
Currently there are three workbooks available:
- Playing with patterns (developing algebraic thinking)
- Multiply without memorizing
- Estimating
- Proportional Reasoning (COMING SOON)
- Probability Art (COMING SOON)
Here’s the video on playing with patterns:
Here’s the video on estimation:
“The resources are great at generating conversation,” says Francesca de Bastiani, from Paintedstone & Associates Learning Systems (PALS). “I’m very grateful for those. They’re manageable enough to complete in a reasonable time and provide a sense of achievement. People can do parts of it on their own and other parts as a group discussion. The learners love them.”
– from Indigenous learners boost math skills with ABC Everyday Numbers
The Government of Canada’s Skills for Success model defines numeracy as the ability to find, use, and report mathematical information presented through words, numbers, symbols, and graphics. Numeracy skills are used in daily life such as figuring out how many minutes until a train departs, increasing a recipe to serve extra guests, and checking that the correct change was received after a purchase.
According to the 2013 Programme for the International Assessment of Adult Competencies (PIAAC) by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), just 13 per cent of Canadian adults rank proficient in numeracy, which means they can understand complex mathematical information and work with mathematical arguments and models. Conversely, 55 per cent of Canadians score at the three lowest levels of the assessment. An individual at the lowest level will be able to carry out simple processes such as counting, sorting, and performing basic arithmetic operations with whole numbers. Unsuitable numeracy skills impact us financially, socially and professionally, and it may even affect our health and well-being.
“With ABC Everyday Numbers, we’re bringing math to life through clear, easy-to-understand resources that teach introductory math principles in real-life scenarios,” says Alison Howard, Executive Director of ABC Life Literacy Canada. “Canadians are struggling with numeracy skills, and our goal with the program is to give adults the skills needed to use math confidently in their daily lives.”
– from New numeracy program aims to help Canadians build much-needed math skills
ABC Everyday Numbers was developed with support from Manulife in alignment with their Impact Agenda and commitment to driving inclusive economic opportunities.
