Zimbabwe Grade 2 Curriculum - Mathematics

This information is derived from the Zimbabwe Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education's Mathematics and Science Infant Syllabus (2015-2022).

Preamble:

The Mathematics curriculum emphasizes practical activities and problem-solving to build a foundation for future learning. It aims to equip learners with essential life skills and facilitate a smooth transition to Junior school. Assessment is continuous and focuses on the learner's ability to grasp and master skills at their own pace.

Aims:

The curriculum aims to develop a positive attitude towards Mathematics, enable smooth progression to Junior Primary, foster critical thinking and problem-solving through communication, equip learners with practical math skills, encourage meaningful interaction with the environment, highlight the role of culture in learning, and promote holistic development through psychosocial skills.

Objectives:

Learners should be able to use mathematical terms, perform accurate calculations, estimate and measure, interpret data, apply math in real-life situations, explore mathematical ideas, promote environmental sustainability, demonstrate problem-solving skills, design simple technological devices using local materials, and maintain a positive attitude towards Mathematics.

Methodology and Time Allocation:

A learner-centered, hands-on approach is recommended, with a focus on problem-solving and critical thinking. Suggested methodologies include discovery, experimentation, group work, projects, songs, poems, questioning, educational tours, imitation, discussion, and investigation. These should be complemented by child-centered and multi-sensory approaches, along with principles of individualization, concreteness, and stimulation. The recommended time allocation is 2.5 hours per week. Learners should also participate in at least two educational tours per year, one environmental expo, and an annual young scientist exhibition.

Topics:

The curriculum covers several key topics, including mathematical play, manipulative and block play, science, mathematics and discovery play, number and science concepts, number operations, measures, and relationships in science and mathematics.

Grade 2 Competency Matrix:

The competency matrix details specific learning outcomes for Grade 2 within each topic. Here's a summary of the key mathematical areas:

• Number and Science Concepts: Counting, reading, and writing numbers up to ; ordinal numbers; number lines; grouping objects; basic addition and subtraction; problem-solving involving numbers.
• Number Operations: Addition and subtraction of two-digit numbers (with and without regrouping); multiplication as repeated addition; division as sharing equally; applying these operations to real-life problems.
• Measures: Using non-standard units for measurement (e.g., hand spans, body parts); comparing mass and capacity; telling time (hours and half-hours); sequencing events; understanding days of the week and months of the year; solving simple problems involving time and measurement.
• Shapes: Identifying, naming, and describing 2D and 3D shapes; comparing and sorting shapes; understanding properties of shapes.
• Data Handling: Representing data using pictures and bar graphs; interpreting simple data displays.

Assessment:

Continuous assessment is used, encompassing practical assignments, projects, and profiling of soft skills. Soft skills are assessed through checklists, rating scales, and observation guides. The weighting of skills is as follows: Knowledge (15%), Routine Manipulation (25%), Understanding and Application (35%), and Problem Solving (25%). The final mark is based entirely on continuous assessment.