METHODOLOGY FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF FUNCTIONAL LITERACY OF SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS THROUGH TEACHING SOLVING CONTEXTUAL PROBLEMS IN MATHEMATICS

Abstract

The article discusses the problem of developing mathematical
literacy as part of functional literacy within the context of modernizing school
math education. It justifies the relevance of incorporating functional literacy into
the general education system and explores various approaches to understanding
it. The content and structure of mathematical literacy are defined, and the
characteristics of contextual problems designed to develop and assess mathematical
literacy are presented. The paper analyzes the challenges and proposes ways to
incorporate mathematical literacy as an aspect of math education development.
It also considers the possibilities of using subject-based, interdisciplinary, and
practical contextual problems to foster mathematical literacy. Finally, conclusions
are drawn regarding the outcomes of implementing functional literacy in math
instruction. In this regard, the aim of our article is to justify the need for a
methodology to develop functional literacy among secondary school students by
teaching them how to solve contextual problems in mathematics.
When writing this article, we used certain scientific methods to explore
the topic. To fully understand the topic, we applied theoretical and empirical
methods, as well as methods for analyzing scientific literature, generalizing,
comparing, and systematizing theoretical knowledge, which allowed us to
describe the foundations of the methodology for developing functional literacy
among secondary school students through teaching them to solve contextual
mathematical problems.
According to the findings of this study, many researchers have found
that the development of functional literacy through mathematics lessons not
only enhances students’ knowledge level but also fosters their critical thinking
and analytical skills. This includes the ability to solve problems, which in turn
contributes to contextual math problems. The conclusion of this study is that
contextual math problems help students apply their mathematical knowledge
to real-life situations, providing an opportunity for them to develop functional
literacy.