Mathematics is one of the most challenging subjects for young learners. It is also one of the most important gateway subjects for future study and careers in science, technology, and business.
While South Africa’s overall matric pass rate continues to improve, the number of learners passing core mathematics remains significantly lower and even seems to decline. Many learners disengage from the subject long before they reach the final years of school. The issue often starts with gaps in foundational understanding that accumulate over time.
“Mathematics can trigger strong emotional reactions in learners, from anxiety and frustration to a belief that the subject simply ‘isn’t for them’,” says Michelle Sephton, Mathematics and Sciences Publisher at Oxford University Press South Africa (OUPSA). “But when learners experience progress in manageable steps, their confidence grows. That confidence is often the turning point that changes how they approach mathematics.”
Practice and progress tracking
Consistent practice is critical to improving mathematical understanding. To support this, OUPSA recently introduced the Oxford Beyond Mathematics Practice Workbooks for Grades 1 to 3 to help reinforce classroom learning through weekly practice.
Each workbook provides learners with structured exercises linked to the work they are covering at school. The books also include assessment worksheets at the end of each term, allowing learners and teachers to check understanding and track improvement throughout the year. A key feature is the inclusion of a visual “maths tree”, which allows learners to monitor their progress and mastery of topics over time.
“Regular practice helps learners see that progress in mathematics happens step by step,” says Sephton. “When learners can see their improvement, it builds motivation and confidence.”
The books also include creative elements such as colouring activities, storytelling opportunities, and real-world maths scenarios, helping learners connect mathematical concepts to everyday situations.
Answer guides are accessible through QR codes, making it easier for parents and educators to support learners at home.
The role of mindset
Alongside structured learning tools, attitudes toward mathematics play a major role in how learners experience the subject.
Abilities can develop through effort and learning. Learners who view challenges as opportunities are more likely to persist with difficult subjects like mathematics.
Parents can help encourage this mindset by integrating maths into everyday life and emphasising effort rather than only correct answers.
Simple activities such as measuring ingredients while cooking, budgeting for family outings or solving puzzles together can help make maths more relatable and less intimidating. “Parents do not need to be maths experts,” says Sephton. “Simply engaging with children and showing curiosity about how problems are solved can build confidence.”
Small steps, significant impact
When learners receive targeted practice and structured support, progress can be rapid. In some mastery-based learning programmes, students have demonstrated the ability to progress up to eight times faster than traditional instruction, as seen in platforms like ALEKS, an adaptive system that identifies knowledge gaps and delivers personalised learning pathways, and DreamBox, a real-time responsive maths platform that adjusts instruction based on how learners think and solve problems.
It is up to educators and parents to help learners build confidence in mathematics early. This may be one of the most powerful ways to improve educational outcomes in the long term.
The Oxford Beyond Mathematics Practise Workbook series is available at book stores nationwide and online at www.oxford.co.za/oxford-beyond.